Travel advisory issued by global authorities for Nepal due to escalating violence during government crackdown
In the heart of South Asia, Nepal is currently experiencing a tumultuous period. The capital city, Kathmandu, has been the epicentre of protests, sparked by a social media ban aimed at tackling hate speech and extremism.
The United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has reissued travel advice for Kathmandu and other areas due to the ongoing protests. The FCDO advisory notes that protests have led to violent clashes and the lethal use of force by the police, resulting in at least 19 fatalities and dozens more injuries.
India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has urged restraint on all sides and advised Indian nationals to postpone trips to Nepal, also telling citizens already there to shelter indoors. Similarly, Canadian authorities have issued similar warnings, cautioning their citizens about the unrest in Nepal.
The protests have disrupted operations at Nepal's Tribhuvan International Airport, with flights both domestic and international being affected. Kathmandu airport has been significantly impacted, causing delays and cancellations for many tourists. Freedom of movement has also been limited in several cities, including Kathmandu and Pokhara, due to the protests and the introduction of curfews.
Despite the reversal of the social media ban, the FCDO warns of "continued disruption to services" in Nepal. This includes potential difficulties in accessing the internet and mobile networks, which could complicate travel plans and communications for tourists.
However, tourists should be able to move around and travel to and from airports with proof of travel plans. The UK law entitles those affected by flight cancellations to food, drink, accommodation, and other support from airlines.
Young people in Nepal are participating in the protests, denouncing the censorship and calling for a focus on fighting corruption instead. Many are voicing their dissatisfaction with the government's actions and demanding change.
The German Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt) has also issued a travel advisory update on September 10, advising visitors in Nepal to avoid demonstrations and follow authorities' instructions, in addition to protests in Kathmandu and other areas.
Visitors in Nepal are urged to stay away from demonstrations and obey official instructions for their safety. It is recommended that they monitor local news and consult travel advisories regularly for updates on the situation.
In these challenging times, it is essential for tourists to prioritise their safety and plan accordingly. For those considering travel to Nepal, it is crucial to stay informed and heed the advice of local authorities and travel advisories.
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