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International - US advises Americans to defer travel to Mumbai

Updated - 28/11/2008 - IANS.

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Warning American citizens about heightened security concerns in India, the US government has urged Americans to defer travel to Mumbai for at least 48-72 hours in the aftermath of the Nov 26 terrorist attacks in Mumbai.

In a travel alert expiring Dec 31, Department of State Thursday also advised those travelling to or already in India to maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps for their security.

Noting that casualties in the attack "on hotels, a railway station, restaurant, hospital, and other locations in Mumbai frequented by Westerners" include both Indian and foreign nationals, it said: "Americans appear to have been among those specifically targeted."

US citizens living or travelling abroad are also encouraged to register with the nearest US 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 US embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the embassy or consulate to contact them in case of emergency, the alert said.

"US citizens should exercise caution and 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, and ensuring travel documents are current," the alert advised.

"Americans are advised to monitor local news reports, vary their routes and times in carrying out daily activities, and consider the level of security present when visiting public places, including religious sites, or hotels, restaurants, entertainment and recreation venues."

"If unattended packages are spotted, American citizens should immediately exit the area and report the packages to authorities.

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