As Chhath Puja approaches, the demand for flights to Bihar has skyrocketed, pushing domestic airfare to unprecedented levels. Reports indicate that flight prices from cities like Delhi and Mumbai to Bihar’s key destinations, such as Patna and Darbhanga, have surged well above international fares. While traveling to Bihar can cost between ₹13,000 and ₹18,000, flights from Delhi to destinations like Dubai, Malaysia, Bangkok, and Singapore range from ₹10,000 to ₹20,000, making international travel a more affordable option in some cases.
This dramatic rise in ticket prices has sparked debate among travelers, with many questioning why a domestic journey is suddenly costlier than an international one.
The Chhath Puja Factor: High Demand Leads to Steep Prices
Chhath Puja, a prominent festival celebrated primarily in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh, draws millions of devotees who travel back to their hometowns to participate in the festivities. The annual rush has a significant impact on demand for transportation, with a surge in bookings for trains and flights to Bihar. This year, however, the demand for flights has been particularly high, leading to a steep increase in airfare.
As families, friends, and worshipers prepare for Chhath Puja celebrations, the travel industry has responded by raising prices, knowing that many people have little choice but to pay the inflated rates. Despite the high prices, flights are still filling up quickly, and tickets are becoming increasingly scarce.
A Comparison: Domestic vs. International Fares
During this season, the price of domestic flights to Patna and Darbhanga can reach up to ₹18,000, which is close to or even surpasses the cost of traveling to international destinations like Dubai or Southeast Asian countries. A round-trip to Dubai from Delhi, for example, is available for as low as ₹10,000, while similar flights to Malaysia or Thailand range between ₹10,000 and ₹20,000.
The high demand and limited capacity of flights to Bihar are primary reasons for this disparity. In comparison, flights to international destinations are more plentiful, and there is a wider range of airlines offering competitive prices, especially for popular tourist destinations. This competition keeps international fares more stable even during peak seasons.
Why Prices Have Skyrocketed? Limited Flights and High Demand
Several factors contribute to the price hike for flights to Bihar.
- Limited Flight Options: There are fewer flights available to Patna, Darbhanga, and other smaller cities in Bihar compared to international tourist destinations. This lack of availability drives prices up as airlines capitalize on the high demand.
- Seasonal Demand Spike: Chhath Puja sees an annual surge in travelers returning to Bihar, creating intense demand for flights during a short period. Airlines respond by adjusting fares based on this temporary demand.
- Higher Operating Costs for Regional Flights: Short-haul domestic flights often have higher operating costs per mile due to airport fees, fuel expenses, and the turnaround time. Airlines pass these costs onto consumers, particularly during peak seasons.
- Dynamic Pricing by Airlines: Airlines use dynamic pricing algorithms that automatically adjust prices based on demand and availability. As seats fill up, the prices increase, and with so many people booking flights for the festival, the algorithm pushes prices higher.
How Travelers Are Responding?
The soaring prices have left many travelers frustrated, with some choosing alternative travel methods like trains or buses to reach their destinations. However, with train tickets also in high demand and limited options available, many find themselves left with few choices.
Some travelers, particularly those who can work remotely, are considering delaying their travel plans until after the festival season, hoping for prices to normalize. Meanwhile, others have turned to carpooling or booking shared rides, though this option is less convenient and requires more planning.
For those who must travel during the Chhath Puja period, the only option is to pay the high prices or secure seats on trains as soon as bookings open.
The Role of Government and Airlines in Managing Seasonal Demand
The sharp price increase during the Chhath Puja season raises questions about how airlines and government bodies manage seasonal demand for travel to less-connected regions. Some have called for the government to intervene and regulate prices during peak travel times, especially for routes to regions where people rely heavily on seasonal travel.
The government could work with airlines to add extra flights during peak seasons to alleviate the demand, helping to bring down prices and make travel more accessible. Additionally, the expansion of infrastructure at regional airports could attract more airlines to operate flights to smaller cities like Patna and Darbhanga, creating a more competitive environment that benefits travelers.
Conclusion: A Costly Journey for Devotees
The rising costs of flights to Bihar during Chhath Puja highlight the challenges of managing seasonal demand in India’s transportation network. While international destinations enjoy stable prices due to more competition and availability, regional routes within India remain expensive and limited in capacity.
For now, travelers looking to reach Bihar for Chhath Puja will have to cope with the high prices or explore alternative travel methods. As the demand for regional connectivity grows, it may prompt airlines and the government to reconsider strategies to meet the needs of travelers more effectively during India’s festival seasons.