Important Security Information for American Citizens in Nepal

February 2, 2006

This warden message is being issued to alert American citizens that the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) has announced a nation-wide, all sector "bandh" (closure) for February 5-11, 2006, in an effort to disrupt the municipal elections scheduled for February 8. 

Previously we have witnessed an increase in the number of bombings and other acts of violence during the days immediately preceding bandhs to intimidate and coerce public compliance.  Therefore, American citizens are urged to exercise extra caution prior to and on the days of the closure.  While it is unclear at this time how widely the bandh will be observed, Americans are advised to minimize non-essential travel, maintain a low profile and, if you must travel, to wait until a pattern of traffic is well established.  Taxi and bus services may not be available.  Moreover, during past closures, a number of buses, taxis, and personal vehicles have been attacked. 

In addition, given the recent bombings and attacks within and outside the Kathmandu Valley and threats against a U.S.-affiliated NGO in Dolakha and Rautahat, American citizens are reminded to exercise special caution and to be particularly vigilant about their personal safety.  American citizens are strongly urged to avoid demonstrations. 

For further information about security conditions in Nepal, American citizens are encouraged to refer to the Consular Information Sheet for Nepal and the current Travel Warning for Nepal issued on December 15, 2005 (http://travel.state.gov/).  American citizens are also encouraged to refer to the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement for additional travel safety and security information.  These documents are available on the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs’ home page at http://travel.state.gov/ and the American Embassy in Nepal's home page at http://nepal.usembassy.gov.  The State Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs maintains an information line at 1-888-407-4747 toll free or (202) 501-4444 Monday through Friday (excluding U.S. Government holidays) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.   Specific information may also be obtained by calling the Embassy at 977-1-444-5577 during working hours and at 977-1-441-1179 during evenings and weekends and asking for the American Citizen Services unit of the Consular Section.  In the event of a communications blackout, security information will be left at all of the major hotels in Kathmandu.