WARDEN MESSAGE-NEPAL
September 21, 2009
The festival season of Dashain and Tihar is fast approaching. Historically during this time there is an increase in criminal activity such as thefts and robberies, clashes, snatching of bags and purses, and house break-ins. Incidents of street harassment by intoxicated individuals also typically increase during this time. Dashain lasts from approximately September 19, 2009, through October 2, 2009, followed by Tihar, which will take place from October 15-19, 2009.
Due to the likelihood of increased criminal activity, all American citizens should exercise caution during the festival season. Below are some steps you can take to mitigate the risk of being a victim of crime.
a. Avoid or minimize moving around late at night;
b. Avoid walking alone after dark or going out to bars and clubs by yourself. There is safety in numbers;
c. Utilize a private driver if possible when going out in the evening;
d. If you must use a taxi, note the registration number and details of Driver ID displayed next to the meter;
e. Be careful while hiring taxis. If you notice the driver is apparently intoxicated, exit the vehicle. Do not share a taxi with people you do not know;
f. Do not carry valuables, large amounts of cash or wear expensive jewelry if you intend to visit night spots;
g. Do not park your vehicles on the road or any empty space where there is no attendant. Use a parking lot with attendants and do not leave valuables in vehicles;
h. Be extra careful of pickpockets. Carry cash and valuables in a waist pouch or inside pocket;
i. Do not eat/drink anything offered by strangers;
j. Lock all doors and windows properly when you are at home and when you depart your residence.
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 https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ 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 and Canada 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).