New Delhi: The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) on Saturday invoked its regulatory powers to impose fare caps across affected routes amid soaring airfares following IndiGo’s cancellation of more than 1,600 flights this week due to crew-rostering mismanagement.

The ministry said it took “serious note” of unusually high fares being charged during the disruption and has directed airlines to ensure “fair and reasonable” pricing to prevent opportunistic hikes. It said the caps would remain in force until the situation stabilises.

Calling the move essential to protect passengers — including senior citizens, students and medical travellers — the ministry said its objective is to maintain pricing discipline and prevent financial distress for those needing to travel urgently.

A formal directive

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