Finance
The US State Department has issued a sudden Level 2 travel advice for India, advising visitors to “exercise increased caution” due to rising worries about crime and terrorism in specific areas.
The advice, issued on June 16, identifies increasing dangers in numerous portions of India, including Odisha.
It warns that violent crimes, including sexual assault, are taking place in tourist attractions and other public areas. The advice also warns of terrorist strikes with little or no warning, with targets including tourist attractions, transit hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government buildings.
The US government has limited capacity to give emergency help to US citizens living in remote areas, according to the alert.
Regions of Concern
The advisory covers areas stretching from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal. Due to security concerns, US government employees in India are required to obtain special authorization before traveling to these regions.
Travel Precautions
Travelers to India are advised to:
- Avoid carrying satellite phones or GPS devices, which are illegal and may incur penalties up to $200,000 or three years imprisonment.
- Avoid traveling alone, especially women.
- Stay alert, review personal security plans, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates and emergency assistance.
- Consult the India Country Security Report by the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) and prepare contingency plans.
- Obtain travel insurance that covers evacuation, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations.
Specific Areas to Avoid
- Jammu and Kashmir: Travel is prohibited except to eastern Ladakh and Leh, due to terrorism and civil unrest. Violence is common along the Line of Control (LOC) with Pakistan and in tourist areas such as Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam.
- India-Pakistan Border: Due to the potential for armed conflict, travel is not advised. The only official crossing for foreigners is between Attari (India) and Wagah (Pakistan).
- Central and Eastern India: Maoist extremist (Naxalite) activity poses a threat in parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and surrounding states. Attacks on government officials and police continue.
- Manipur: Ongoing ethnic violence and crime make travel unsafe.
- Northeastern States: Terrorism and insurgent violence remain concerns, although recent reports indicate some areas such as Assam, Nagaland, and Sikkim have seen less activity.
US government employees must obtain prior approval for travel to most high-risk areas.
Additional Warnings
Travelers are strongly cautioned from crossing the India-Nepal land border due to the danger of immigration detention and fines. India has severe visa rules, and electronic visas are not accepted at land borders.
