TRAVEL ALERT-INDIA

UNCLAS SECTION 01 OF 02 STATE 134376 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: CASC PTER ASEC IN SUBJECT: TRAVEL ALERT-INDIA ¶1. The Department of State warns U.S. citizens that there is a high threat of terrorism throughout 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, especially during the end-of-year holidays until India's Republic Day, January 26. This Travel Alert expires on January 31, 2009 and replaces that issued on December 19 to provide updated information regarding the security situation. ¶2. The November 26 terrorist attack in Mumbai was carried out at venues frequented by Americans. That attack killed 170 persons (including six Americans and 16 other non-Indians) and injured 300. Future attacks may also target public places frequented by Westerners, including in large cities and tourist areas. In response to perceived threats of terror attacks there, the Government of Goa has restricted beach parties and other large outdoor gatherings from December 23 to January 5. ¶3. The U.S. Mission is concerned that increased political tension between Pakistan and India may further complicate travel in areas near their already-sensitive border. In addition, the Department of Defense has increased its security requirements for all its employees visiting India. ¶4. Because of the number and diversity of terror attacks in India during the past two years, Americans in India should be vigilant about security at all times. They should monitor local news, vary their routes and times, and consider the level of security when visiting public places, such as religious sites, hotels, restaurants, or entertainment and recreation venues. U.S. citizens should keep a low profile, avoid crowds and demonstrations, and maintain valid travel documents. Finally, travelers should plan on added time to account for increased security, especially at hotels and airports. ¶5. For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov 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 at http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov, and also at http://travel.state.gov. ¶6. 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 at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ 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" found at http://travel.state.gov. STATE 00134376 002 OF 002 ¶7. 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. The Embassy's Internet home page address is http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov. -- 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. The Internet home page address is http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov. -- 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. The Internet home page address is http://chennai.usconsulate.gov. -- 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. The Internet home page address is http://kolkata.usconsulate.gov. RICE