Important Security Announcement for American Citizens in Nepal

February 20, 2008

The current indefinite bandh (“strike”) in the Terai has caused fuel supplies to reach critical levels in the Kathmandu Valley.  In addition, the cost of basic food supplies is increasing daily.  In the current political climate, it is uncertain how long the bandh will continue or if the situation will worsen.  The potential for demonstrations and acts of violence currently exists, and could increase significantly should the supply situation become more critical.  Some demonstrations protesting the lack of fuel have already occurred around the city, frequently without any advance notice.

During this period, Americans are advised to limit fuel usage as much as possible.  In addition, Americans are advised to minimize non-essential travel and to consider what steps they would need to take if the fuel shortage continues.  American citizens are strongly urged to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place.

For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” found at http://travel.state.gov. Americans living or traveling in Nepal are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu is located at Maharajgunj.  The telephone number is 977-1-4007200, 4007201.  The number for after-hours emergencies is 977-1-4007266,4007269.  The fax number is 977-1-4007281.  The Consulate’s e-mail address is consktm@state.gov and its Internet web page is http://nepal.usembassy.gov  U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State’s latest Travel Warning for Nepal, Country Specific Information for Nepal and the Worldwide Caution, available at http://travel.state.gov.  Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).