India, Dec. 6 -- The Ministry of Civil Aviation has stepped in amid rising concerns over steep airfares charged during the ongoing operational disruption triggered by IndiGo's mass flight cancellations. Citing reports of opportunistic pricing by some airlines, the ministry has invoked its regulatory powers to impose temporary fare caps across affected routes.

In a directive issued to all carriers, the government has mandated strict compliance with the capped pricing structure, which will remain in force until operations stabilise. Officials said the move is intended to prevent exploitation of passengers - particularly senior citizens, students and medical travellers - who are often forced to book urgent flights at inflated rates.

The mi...