Patna: Frequent flight cancellations and severe train delays are now pushing travellers to road transport — and the effect is showing in skyrocketing fares. Demand for large vehicles on long routes from Patna has surged, especially for those heading to Delhi and other major cities.
According to travel operators, bookings for SUVs like Innova and Crysta have doubled. “Earlier, we would see around five to six bookings a day for long-distance travel. Now that number has gone up to 10–15,” said Saqib, a tour and travel agency operator in Patna.
Fares jump from Rs 47,000 to Rs 60,000 for Patna–Delhi route
Until recently, travellers paid Rs 18 per kilometre for luxury vehicles, along with around Rs 5,000 in toll charges — a total of Rs 45,000 to Rs 47,000 for a one-way trip to Delhi. But now, operators are quoting as much as Rs 25 per kilometre, while toll fees continue to be charged separately.
This means a Patna–Delhi road journey today costs nearly Rs 60,000.
Drivers cash in on shortage
The shortage of large vehicles has given drivers an opportunity to charge higher rates. “Because trains are reaching late and flights are getting cancelled, passengers have no option but to book vehicles,” Saqib explained. He added that the long travel time — around 12 to 14 hours from Patna to Delhi — further limits vehicle availability.
With winter fog impacting both rail and air services, passengers are increasingly dependent on roadways to reach their destinations — even if it comes at a steep price.
