The US government warns against travel to the India-Pakistan border, Mexico, and the Turks and Caicos Islands, citing concerns regarding safety, health, and geopolitical instability. Specific provinces in Pakistan, such as Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, are classified under “Level 4: Do Not Travel” due to active violence and terrorism risks. Travelers are urged to exercise caution and avoid certain areas.
The US government has expanded its travel advisory list to include the India-Pakistan border, along with regions such as Mexico and the Turks and Caicos Islands. The advisory outlines concerns over safety, health risks, and geopolitical instability in various places, including the Federated States of Micronesia, North Macedonia, and others. Americans are advised to exercise caution and avoid specific areas due to these risks.
Particularly, the advisory underscores the dangers of traveling near the India-Pakistan border, as well as in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. These regions face threats from violent extremist groups and ongoing armed conflict, creating significant risks for travelers. The advisory notes that terrorist attacks, both large-scale and small-scale, are common and can occur without warning in public areas.
Travelers are warned to avoid the immediate vicinity of the Line of Control, where militant groups are active, and a strong military presence from both India and Pakistan exists. The advisory states that the only legal border crossing for non-citizens between India and Pakistan is at Wagah, requiring an Indian visa. In Balochistan, the advisory is categorized as “Level 4: Do Not Travel”, emphasizing the threats from separatist movements and terrorist attacks targeting civilians and government entities.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is also classified with a travel warning, highlighting the serious risks posed by active terrorist and insurgent groups. Such groups frequently attack civilians, NGOs, and government personnel, including attempts at assassinations and kidnappings. The warning extends to teams involved in vital public health initiatives, such as polio eradication.
The expanded travel advisory by the US government emphasizes serious security threats in regions like the India-Pakistan border, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Travelers are advised against visiting these areas due to ongoing violence, terrorism, and geopolitical instability. It’s crucial for individuals to understand the risks involving potential attacks on civilians and government targets, which can occur unexpectedly in public spaces.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
