Important Security Announcement for American Citizens in Nepal

December 18, 2009

This warden message is being issued to alert U.S. citizens that the Maoist Party (UCPN-Maoist) has announced that they intend to carry out nation-wide general strikes from December 20-22, 2009.  In the past, similar strikes, or bandhs as they are referred to locally, have been successful in completely shutting down vehicular movement and businesses.  The same results are likely in Kathmandu and throughout Nepal if the Maoist programs move forward as planned.

U.S. citizens are strongly urged to avoid mass gatherings and demonstrations.  If the strikes materialize, U.S. citizens are advised to monitor the situation closely on local media outlets, and to stay in your homes and hotels and not move throughout the area unless absolutely necessary.  The U.S. Embassy may also close.  Please remain cognizant and aware of your surroundings and what may transpire.
 
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 Country Specific Information for Nepal, Travel Warning 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).  We will be closed December 24, 25, 2009 and January 1, 2010.