Canadian travellers are checking for updated advice on trips to India following a new travel warning south of the border.
The U.S. government recently issued a travel alert for India, advising travellers to exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism.
The alert notes that "rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India," and violent crimes occur at tourist sites and other locations. Terrorist attacks may happen unexpectedly and target tourist locations, transportation hubs, shopping malls, and government facilities.
The U.S. government has a risk level two advisory for the country. This means travellers should exercise increased caution but aren't advised against all travel, except for specific regions. The U.S. has a four-tier travel advisory system similar to Canada.
India travel advisory: Canada updates advice
The Canadian government advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in India due to the threat of terrorist attacks. It also notes that crime and assault occur throughout the country.
Canada has also issued a level two travel advisory for India, meaning travellers aren't forbidden from travel. However, it advises tourists to avoid all nonessential travel to parts of northeastern India due to the threat of terrorism and insurgency.
Due to its unpredictable security situation, travellers should avoid all travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, according to the Canadian government. There is a threat of terrorism, militancy, civil unrest and kidnapping, reads the advisory.
Additionally, travellers should avoid all travel to areas within 10 km of the border with Pakistan in several states "due to the unpredictable security situation and presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance."
Flight interruptions may occur amid political tensions with Pakistan, and travellers are advised to check with their airline and monitor local media.
Specific considerations for Canadian travellers
Global Affairs Canada warns that Canadians may face intimidation or harassment amid "calls for protests and some negative sentiment towards Canada in traditional media and on social media."
Travellers may encounter demonstrations, including anti-Canada protests. In Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region, Canadians should keep a low profile and not share their personal information. They should also avoid crowded areas, including public transportation, and travel with someone.
Global Affairs Canada advises travellers to always register trips they take online before they leave so that the Canadian government can contact them in an emergency, regardless of trip length.
Additionally, registration allows the government to alert them to important changes or updates to the Travel Advice and Advisories for the country they are in.
With a file from the Associated Press.
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