If you are planning to travel to the region of in the near future, you should be aware of the fact that there are some travel warnings which have been issued for this region. The reason for this travel warning is the security environment in some rural and remote areas, which may continue to pose a security risk. The security risk may be significant, at times. The security risk in at this time is due to continued terrorist threats aimed at Western and interests.
At this time the U.S. Department of State has warned against all travel to by citizens. Because of the security risk, the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad and the Consulates in Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar have been operating at reduced staffing levels. In 2002, family members of Americans assigned to the Embassy in Islamabad and to several consulates in were ordered to leave. They have not been allowed to return.
The concern for security in this region is so great, the U.S. Department of State has urged citizens to seriously consider whether their pending travel to the region of is absolutely necessary. You should be aware that some of the most significant security problems in this area include bombings and kidnappings as well as suicide operations. Indiscriminate attacks against civilian targets in public locales may occur, particularly where westerners may congregate. Whenever possible, avoid large crowds. If you do travel to this region, be aware tha
Overland travel between major cities should be avoided at all costs at night. In some cases, overland travel may be blocked or restricted, due to security concerns.
Be aware of the fact that Al-Qaida and Taliban elements continue to operate in . These elements are particularly strong along the Afghan border area. Due to the presence of Al-Qaida and Taliban elements as well as sectarian and militant groups, there continues to exist a danger toward American citizens.
While you are in this region, you should take prudent security precautions. These precautions should include ensuring that you have adequate amounts of fuel and provisions. If you are staying at a hotel in this region, be sure that adequate security is provided in order to avoid as many potential dangers as possible. Be aware that possible targets in this area include clubs, hotels, places of worship, restaurants, schools and outdoor recreational facilities. Always be alert and adhere to all prudent security practices.
If you do plan to travel to , make sure that you obtain the most up to date health information for this region. If you are an American traveling into this region, be sure that you register at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, located at Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5; telephone (92-51) 208-0000; Consular Section telephone (92-51) 208-2700; fax (92-51) 282-2632. Be aware that posts in may be temporarily suspended from time to time from public service for security reasons.