Dunki route and its danger

News: The issue of illegal migration through ‘dunki routes’ has gained significant attention due to the recent deportation of 104 Indians from the US.

About Dunki route

• The term ‘dunki route’ refers to the unofficial and often dangerous pathways used by migrants to reach their destination countries, particularly the United States, without proper documentation.
• This network was facilitated by human traffickers has been used by many Indians, especially from Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat, who attempt to enter the US illegally through Latin America.

The Dangers of the ‘Dunki Route’

1. Crossing the Darién Gap (Colombia-Panama): This involves treacherous jungle where migrants face threats from wild animals, extreme weather, and armed criminal gangs. Incidents of robbery, assault, and sexual violence are common, with little law enforcement intervention. Migrants often spend 8-10 days navigating the dense forests.
2. Exploitation by Human Traffickers: Agents charge between ₹30-40 lakh to ₹1 crore per person, often demanding full payment before migrants reach their destination.Traffickers frequently deceive migrants, promising safer routes or transportation that never materializes.
3. Navigating Multiple Countries: The journey continues through Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico, where migrants must evade law enforcement. Guatemala serves as a key handover point, where new traffickers take over to facilitate the next phase of the journey.
4. Crossing into the US: The final stretch involves jumping border fences or crossing the Rio Grande river, a perilous undertaking. Once inside the US, migrants are typically detained in camps, where they await asylum proceedings or deportation.