US, UK, Australia caution citizens against visiting India

On their official websites, these countries have categorically mentioned to stay away from cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Jaipur, which have been targeted by terrorists recently.

The British Government has issued an India Travel Advice on its website (www.fco.gov.uk) for their nationals planning to visit India. The advisory says, “We advise against all but essential travel to Mumbai until further notice. If you are currently in Mumbai, we advise you to stay indoors and monitor the media…”

It further states: “There is a high threat of terrorism throughout India. Attacks have targeted public places, including luxury hotels, places of worship and major festivals such as Diwali. They have also targeted places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers, most recently in Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad and Bangalore…”

It has also listed a few places where blasts took place recently. “Explosions occurred in Modasa town, Gujarat and Malegaon, Maharashtra on September 29. Reports indicate people were killed and dozens were injured.”

The US Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, has issued an alert on its website (travel.state.gov), warning citizens against the security concerns in India. It said: “In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks, the Department of State urges Americans to defer travel to Mumbai for at least 48-72 hours… the department advises US citizens travelling to or already in India to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness.”

Pointing out that Americans appear to have been among those “specifically targeted”, it added: “US citizens should take prudent security measures, including maintaining a high level of vigilance, avoiding crowds and demonstrations, keeping a low profile, varying times and routes for all travel…”