Tragic Death of Amritsar Man Highlights Dangers of ‘Dunki’ Route

Gurpreet Singh, a 33-year-old from Amritsar, died of cardiac arrest in Guatemala while attempting to reach the U.S. via the illegal ‘dunki’ route. The incident highlights the dangers faced by immigrants taking this route. His family seeks government assistance for repatriation, while officials urge youth to avoid such perilous journeys and consider education for safer opportunities.

A 33-year-old man from Ramdas village, Amritsar, tragically died of cardiac arrest while journeying to the United States via the illegal ‘dunki’ route through Guatemala. His family confirmed the incident on Sunday, which occurred shortly after 104 Indian immigrants were deported back to India from the U.S., many of whom had used this same dangerous route.

The deceased, Gurpreet Singh, had departed India three months prior, having paid ₹36 lakh to agents who facilitated his journey. According to his brother, Sardara Singh, Gurpreet had previously traveled to England but returned home, reigniting his determination to reach the U.S. He initially paid ₹16.5 lakh to Chandigarh-based agents to reach Guyana, later relying on a Pakistan-based agent for the remaining journey.

During his stay in Guatemala, Gurpreet experienced severe breathlessness just as he was preparing for the next transit. “As they were preparing to leave for their next destination, Gurpreet experienced severe breathlessness. Within minutes, his condition worsened, and he passed away,” explained Sardara Singh.

The family has appealed to the Indian government for assistance in repatriating Gurpreet’s body for traditional Sikh rites. Punjab’s minister for NRI affairs, Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, expressed his condolences and emphasized the urgent need for Punjabi youth to avoid unauthorized routes for migration. He encouraged young people to pursue skill-based education and stable opportunities instead.

The ongoing issue of illegal immigration via the ‘dunki route’ poses significant risks. Recent accounts from 104 deported individuals highlight the dangers and exploitation encountered at the hands of travel agents during their journeys. This incident underscores the need for heightened awareness regarding the severe consequences of such travel.

The ‘dunki’ route has emerged as a controversial and illegal pathway for individuals seeking to migrate to the United States from India and other countries. Known for its hazardous conditions and the risk of exploitation by unscrupulous agents, this route has seen a significant increase in usage among young migrants, especially from the Punjab region. Tragically, this has led to an uptick in deaths and emergency situations, drawing urgent attention from governmental authorities and communities alike.

Gurpreet Singh’s untimely death during his perilous journey to the U.S. via the ‘dunki’ route serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with illegal immigration. The emerging trends indicate a growing crisis as many young individuals, motivated by the pursuit of better opportunities, engage in these dangerous journeys facilitated by predatory agents. There is a clear call from authorities to diminish the allure of such unauthorized routes by promoting safe and viable migration alternatives through education and skilled training.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com