US issues new advisory on India
Ayeshea Perera -
Friday, December 05, 2008 5:04 PM
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens about heightened security concerns in India, and advises U.S. citizens traveling to or already in India to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. This replaces the Travel Alert issued on November 29 and expires on January 5, 2009, advises U.S. citizens of recent security procedures for travelers, and reminds them of the need to exercise caution when visiting India.
American citizens in India are advised that the Government of India has ordered heightened security measures at airports and the surrounding areas throughout India. The Government of India has alerted airline security officials that threat information has been received targeting airports on or around December 4 through December 6. All major airports in India, including those in New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Kochi, have been placed on high alert following threats of airport attacks and hijacking of planes.
Passengers will be allowed entry to an airport only after showing valid photo identity cards and are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours in advance for both domestic and international flights. Indian security forces will be conducting checks of vehicles, passenger baggage, airport entrances, and exit roads. Under this heightened security system where extra surveillance has been setup at most airports, passengers should expect to be frisked several times before boarding the aircraft.
While terrorist attacks are not new to India, the November 26 Mumbai terrorist attacks in part targeted American citizens and other westerners for the first time and tragically demonstrate that even in five-star luxury hotels, security is not equipped to deter such attacks. U.S. citizens should take this new reality into account and exercise caution when visiting India. Prudent security measures include maintaining a high level of vigilance, avoiding crowds and demonstrations and keeping a low profile by not calling attention to one's nationality.
The Department of State advises Americans planning to travel to Mumbai in the aftermath of the November 26 terrorist attacks to recognize that it may be some time before all public infrastructure and services return to normal. Emotions are running high and there are possibilities of demonstrations that could turn violent.
Americans throughout India should be vigilant about security at all times. The Embassy and Consulates are actively assessing the countrywide security environment. Americans are advised to monitor local news reports, vary their routes and times in carrying out daily activities, and consider the level of security when visiting public places, including religious sites, hotels, restaurants, entertainment, and recreation venues. If unattended packages are spotted, American citizens should immediately exit the area and report the packages to authorities.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found.
Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
Americans are also encouraged to read the Country Specific Information for India, available on the Embassy's website and also at http://travel.state.gov <http://travel.state.gov/> .
U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration web site so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad".
U.S. citizens may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the Embassy or the Consulates General for further information:
-- The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi is located at Shanti Path, Chanakya Puri 110021; telephone +91-11-2419-8000; fax +91-11-2419-8407. Or visit the Embassy's Internet home page address
-- The U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai (Bombay) is located at Lincoln House, 78 Bhulabhai Desai Road, 400026, telephone +91-22-2363-3611; fax +91-22-2363-0350. Or visit the Internet home page
-- The U.S. Consulate General in Chennai (Madras) is at 220 Anna Salai, Gemini Circle, 600006, telephone +91-44-2857-4000; fax +91-44-2811-2027.Or visit the Internet home page
-- The U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata (Calcutta) is at 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani, 700071; telephone +91-33-3984-2400; fax +91-33-2282-2335.Or visit the Internet home page