How Indians Fall into the Donkey Route Trap: The Perilous Journey to the American Dream

Amritsar : Desperate to chase the American Dream, many Indians are falling prey to the dangerous ‘Donkey Route,’ an illegal immigration network that promises entry into the U.S. after visa refusals. This perilous journey involves human smugglers, also known as ‘donkers,’ who lure individuals with ‘deluxe’ and ‘economy’ travel packages, claiming to provide a safe passage. However, reality paints a different picture—one filled with treacherous landscapes, life-threatening risks, and financial exploitation.

A key segment of this illegal route passes through Panama’s deadly Darién Gap, a dense jungle infamous for extreme weather, wild animals, and violent criminal gangs. Many migrants endure unimaginable hardships, including exhaustion, dehydration, and robberies by smugglers who often abandon them mid-journey. Survivors recount horrifying tales of people losing their lives due to starvation, drowning in rivers, or being left behind due to injuries.

With visa approvals becoming increasingly difficult, human trafficking networks in India, Latin America, and the U.S. have expanded their operations, promising an alternate yet illegal path. Reports suggest that desperate families sell property and take loans to pay hefty sums—often ranging from ₹20 to ₹50 lakh—to these networks, believing they will eventually reach American soil. However, many end up in detention centers or face deportation before ever reaching their destination.

Authorities worldwide are cracking down on these illegal networks, but the demand for such routes continues to grow. The Indian government has issued multiple warnings, urging citizens not to fall into the trap of human traffickers. Despite this, economic struggles and dreams of a better future push many toward these life-threatening journeys. As cases rise, stricter enforcement and awareness campaigns are crucial to prevent more Indians from becoming victims of the Donkey Route’s deadly web.