Indian Illegal Immigration To US Via 'Donkey Route' Drops 70%

Indian nationals attempting to enter the United States illegally via the so-called 'donkey route' have dropped by nearly 70%, according to data from Indian and US authorities. The route, which typically involves multiple stopovers in countries such as Dubai, Turkey, or Central America before reaching the US-Mexico border, has become significantly harder to navigate.

US border enforcement has tightened under recent policies, including expedited removals and increased surveillance along the southern border. Direct deportation flights from the US to India have also accelerated, reducing the incentive for repeat attempts. In India, police in states like Punjab have intensified operations against human smuggling networks, arresting dozens of facilitators and freezing assets linked to illegal migration.

The financial risk for migrants has also risen sharply. Smugglers now charge up to $50,000 per person for the journey, with no guarantee of success. Many families in Punjab have reported losing life savings after relatives were detained and deported. The drop in numbers reflects a combination of deterrence and diminished confidence in the route's reliability.

Officials say the trend is likely to continue as both countries coordinate more closely on information sharing and repatriation. However, they caution that smuggling networks may adapt by shifting to new transit points or methods, requiring sustained vigilance.