US issues travel advisory to its citizens visiting Nepal

Washington, Sep 25 (UNI) Expressing concern over the security situation in Nepal, the United States has urged its citizens to obtain updated security information before travelling to the Himalayan nation.

In a statement issued yesterday, the State Department said, ''Nepal continues to experience sporadic incidents of terrorism and politically-motivated violence in major urban areas. Nepal Police believe that the Improvised Explosive Devices were planted intentionally where people congregate. American citizens should avoid public transportation and be cautious of unattended baggage in public places.'' The Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the Government and the Communist Party of Nepal had failed to counter the attacks, extortion, and abductions by the Maoists, the statement said, adding that'' Since the cease-fire in May 2006, hotels and businesses frequented by American citizens have been targets of extortion demands, forced closures, and have become the focus of demonstrations''.

The US Embassy in Nepal strongly recommended that travel should be avoided unless essential and advised its citizens to take special precautions during the demonstartions. Besides, people should avoid walking alone at night and carrying large sums of cash or wearing expensive jewellery.

Calling the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) a ''Specially Designated Global Terrorist'', the statement said the US excluded the Maoists from entering its premises and debarred the citizens to transact with them in any form.

UNI