The aftermath of the tragic stampede on the night of Mauni Amavasya at the Mahakumbh has had a significant impact on the fair and the city’s economy. The number of incoming devotees has declined sharply, affecting businesses across sectors.
Shopkeepers report a steep drop in sales, with losses reaching up to 40 percent. Similarly, flight ticket prices have plummeted by 40 percent as demand has waned. Hoteliers, who had raised room tariffs ahead of Mauni Amavasya, have been forced to slash prices following widespread cancellations of advance bookings.
Due to the prevailing uncertainty, fewer pilgrims from other states are traveling to Prayagraj. As a result, hotel bookings have witnessed a significant decline. The city, home to around 250 small and large hotels, also hosts a temporary tent city in the Sangam area. Prior to Mauni Amavasya, accommodation rates in these areas had surged by 20 to 30 percent. However, with the drop in footfall, rates have been revised downward. In other parts of the city, hotel tariffs remain unchanged, but occupancy levels remain low.