The US Department of State has warned US citizens of risks of traveling to Nepal and urged to take caution when traveling here.
In an updated travel warning following the ouster of Maoist-led government from power, the US state department said it remains concerned about the security situation in Nepal and urges American citizens to obtain updated security information before they travel and to be prepared to change their plans on short notice.
This replaced the Travel Warning for Nepal issued by the department on November 21, 2008.
The warning said political violence remains a problem in Nepal. The Young Communist League (YCL), a Maoist Party subgroup, continues to engage in extortion, abuse, and threats of violence, particularly in rural areas. Youth groups from the other two main political parties, the Nepali Congress (NC) and the CPN (UML), have also formed and clashes continue among these political rivals. Violent actions by multiple armed splinter groups in the Terai region along the southern border with India remain a significant concern.
It further said, protests, demonstrations and disruptions frequently occur and that the resignation Maoist-led government has created an environment of increased political instability and the potential for demonstrations to be called without advance notice.
Given the nature, intensity, and unpredictability of disturbances, American citizens are urged to exercise special caution during times when demonstrations are announced, avoid areas where demonstrations are occurring or crowds are forming, avoid road travel, and maintain a low profile.
The US department also said crime in the Kathmandu valley continues to rise and police resources to combat such crime are limited.
The statement also reaffirmed that U.S. government's designation of the UCPN (Maoist) as a "Specially Designated Global Terrorist" organisation under Executive Order 13224 and its inclusion on the "Terrorist Exclusion List" pursuant to the Immigration and Nationality Act remain in effect. nepalnews.com ia May 23 09
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