Imphal to Delhi flights cheaper than Imphal to Guwahati

IMPHAL — Imphal to Delhi flights are cheaper than Imphal to Guwahati for November 3. The Imphal to Delhi flight (private airline) cost is INR 11,537 while Imphal to Guwahati is INR 14,646.

Sharing the online document in a Facebook post on Sunday, state-in-charge H Radhakrishna Sharma of Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) wrote, “Can you believe that Imphal to Delhi flights on November 3rd which take around 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours, are cheaper than Imphal to Guwahati flights that take just 35-45 minutes? It's outrageous that we're being taken advantage of by airlines using dynamic pricing, especially during this time of ethnic violence when we have no choice but to fly.”

“Isn't it unfair to charge exorbitant fares to people travelling out of necessity when road travel has been impossible for the past 2.5 years? Shouldn't the authorities step in to regulate such price gouging?” Sharma questioned.

“It feels like Manipur is being left to fend for itself, bearing the brunt of unjust policies and politics,” he added.

Also read: Eight militants of different outfits arrested in Manipur, arms recovered

With the closure of National Highways 2 and 37 due to the ongoing ethnic conflict since May 3, 2023, air travel has become a vital lifeline for Manipur, connecting the state to the rest of the country.

But the concerned authorities are yet to react to such hardships faced by the people. The authorities are yet to act — either reopening the highways for safe surface transport or regulating the airfare.

Last month, the Manipur chapter of IATO requested Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to allow pre-arrival Protected Area Permits applications during visa processing in travellers’ home countries.

They also sought authorisation for approved tour operators and IATO members to apply for permits on behalf of clients.