Hundreds of passengers face problems in traveling to their desired destinations, with disruptions within the domestic flights of IndiGo. The situation was also being used by several airlines to take undue advantage by raising ticket prices sky-high. Many passengers shared on social media that they paid extremely high fares for the flights.
The Centre intervened on Saturday after it noticed these opportunistic price increases. It initiated actions to protect the passengers from exorbitant fares. The Ministry of Civil Aviation said that price controls are now in place and had to be adhered to.
In a statement, the ministry said, "We are taking serious note of the unusual fare increases during flight disruptions. Measures are being taken to prevent opportunistic pricing. The ministry is using regulatory powers to determine the fair fares on affected routes. These rules must be followed strictly until normal operations resume."
It also noted that hundreds of flight cancellations are particularly affecting senior citizens, students and passengers needing medical assistance. The ministry was insistent on the need to control prices to avoid consumer exploitation. Authorities also warned that action will be taken in case the rules are violated.
The announcement came after a review by Union Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu with ministry officials. Officials said that fares would be continuously monitored. The government continues to keep a close eye on the operations of airlines and travel platforms. During the COVID-19 period, the government implemented similar price limits.
It has cancelled hundreds of flights over recent days. On Saturday, the carrier axed many of its domestic services at a number of airports. According to Delhi Airport, services are being restored though some flights remain affected.
The Railways has also stepped in to ease travel problems. Extra coaches were attached to some trains, while special trains are being run to help passengers reach their destinations.
