Many people, including students, dream of going to the USA for better opportunities. But instead of following legal paths, some choose the illegal ‘Dunki’ route—a dangerous and life-threatening journey through multiple countries. This shortcut is not worth the risk, as it involves human traffickers, harsh jungles, extreme weather, and legal trouble.
What is the ‘Dunki’ Route?
The ‘Dunki’ route (or ‘Donkey Flight’) is a long and risky path used by illegal immigrants to reach the USA. Since getting a US visa is difficult, people travel to other countries first and then try to sneak into America through the Mexico border.
How Does It Work?
1: Flying from India to South America
- Migrants buy tourist visas for countries like Ecuador, Bolivia, or Brazil (easier to get).
- They pay agents ₹40 lakh to ₹1.25 crore for fake promises of safe passage.
2: Reaching Colombia and Entering the Deadly Darién Gap
- From Ecuador/Brazil, they travel by road to Colombia (sometimes by boat or bus).
- To reach Panama, they must cross the Darién Gap, a 100-km dangerous jungle.
- Dangers in the jungle:
- Deadly animals: Snakes, jaguars, and insects.
- Tough conditions: Heavy rain, deep rivers, and no food.
- Criminal gangs: Many migrants get kidnapped, robbed, or even killed.
3: Crossing Central America
- After Panama, migrants continue through Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Guatemala.
- Police in these countries often catch and deport them.
- Many walk for weeks in extreme heat with little food or water.
4: Entering Mexico and Trying to Cross the US Border
- Migrants hide in trucks, walk through deserts, or swim across the Rio Grande river.
- Border patrol agents are everywhere, and most people get caught and sent back.
- Some die in the desert due to dehydration or wild animals.
How Many Days Does It Take to Reach the USA?
The journey usually takes 20 to 45 days, depending on:
- The countries they pass through (some take longer routes).
- How much money they pay to traffickers (more money = slightly faster).
- Weather conditions and police activity.
Shocking Data (2021-2024) – Growing Problem
The number of Indian migrants caught at the US border is increasing:
- 2021: 30,662 Indians tried this route and got caught.
- 2023: The number jumped to 96,917—a huge increase!
- 2024: US authorities deported 104 Indians in one military flight as part of a crackdown.
Reality Check: Most people who take this route never reach the USA. Instead, they face arrest, deportation, or even death.
What Are the Biggest Risks?
LIFE-THREATENING DANGERS:
- Death in the Jungle: Many people get lost or die in the Darién Gap due to wild animals, starvation, or drowning.
- Kidnapping and Rape: Criminal gangs attack migrants and demand money from their families.
- Fake Agents & Scams: Many agents take money and disappear, leaving people stranded in foreign countries.
- Harsh Weather: Migrants walk in extreme heat during the day and freeze at night.
LEGAL TROUBLES:
If caught, you will be detained and sent back to India.
The US government may ban you from entering legally in the future.
What Should Governments Do?
- Create Awareness: Educate people about the dangers of illegal migration.
- Make Legal Processes Easier: Improve student and work visa programs so people don’t need to take illegal routes.
- Make Action Against Human Traffickers: Strictly punish those who scam migrants.
What Are the Safer and Legal Ways to Go to the USA?
Instead of choosing the dangerous ‘Dunki’ route, students and job seekers should follow these legal and safe options:
- Student Visa (F-1 Visa): Apply for a real university in the USA and get a proper visa.
- Work Visa (H-1B, L-1): Get hired by a company and apply for a work permit.
- Canada PR Pathway: Canada offers easier PR options, and later, you can apply for a US visa.
Interesting Read
Final Thought: Is It Worth the Risk?
NO! The ‘Dunki’ route is not just illegal—it is a death trap. The chances of success are very low, and the risks are extremely high. No dream is worth your life. If you want to go abroad, choose legal pathways, work hard, and stay safe.
Would you take a shortcut that could destroy your future? Think wisely before making a decision!
