Pak vs India: Cricket fans turn to hospitals amidst exorbitant hotel bookings

NEW DELHI: As the much-anticipated World Cup 2023 match between Pakistan and India will be played on October 15, cricket enthusiasts are scrambling to secure hospital bookings due to the steep rise in hotel prices in Ahmedabad.

According to the Indian media, the fixture, set to take place at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, has ignited a buzz among cricket fans, resulting in an overwhelming surge in hotel and flight bookings across the city.

Indian media said that hotel rents have reached unprecedented heights, with ordinary accommodations demanding a staggering INR 50,000 to INR 100,000 per room.

Cricket Fans are Booking Hospital Beds in Ahmedabad Because of High Hotel Room Prices Around IND vs PAK ICC World Cup 2023

5 Star Hotel Room Price in Ahmedabad are Going as High as ₹1,00,000 Per Night

— Ravisutanjani (@Ravisutanjani) July 21, 2023

The media reports said that cricket fans, caught in the frenzy of securing suitable lodging, have come up with an alternative solution – seeking refuge in hospitals.

The reports suggested that hospitals were offering cheaper stays, complete with amenities such as breakfast etc.

Dr Paras Shah, a local physician, said, “Since it’s a hospital, they are asking for a full-body check-up and an overnight stay, fulfilling both their needs – saving money on lodging and getting their health check-up done.

He said that “these individuals are ready to accept any accommodation offered, ranging from deluxe to suite rooms. However, due to limited rooms available, we are carefully considering advance bookings from NRIs (non-resident Indians) as our priority remains focused on patient care.”

The International Cricket Council Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, hosted by India, will commence on October 5.

The tournament will be played at 10 venues in India and will feature nine teams.