THE Canadian government has issued an update to its travel advisory for India, urging its citizens to avoid all travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as border areas with Pakistan, due to heightened security risks and recent terror attacks.
The advisory also notes that the Attari-Wagah crossing is currently closed.
The updated travel warning comes in the wake of a terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam last week.
The advisory states, “The security situation in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir remains tense, with high risks of violent protests, civil unrest, and acts of terrorism and militancy.” The warning specifically excludes the Union Territory of Ladakh from this alert.
“Violent clashes between militants and security forces occur regularly. Terrorist attacks on security forces have led to civilian casualties, and further attacks are possible at any time. You could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time,” the advisory continues.
It also highlights the volatile security situation along the border with Pakistan, particularly along the Line of Control (LoC), which separates Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh from Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The advisory mentions sporadic cross-border gunfire and shelling along the LoC.
Furthermore, it advises Canadians against travelling within 10 km of the Pakistan border in Gujarat, Punjab, and Rajasthan due to unpredictable security conditions.
Overall, the Canadian government has urged its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution while travelling in India.
“The level of tension between India and Pakistan may change suddenly. You could experience difficulties when travelling between the two countries and may be subject to scrutiny if officials from either country become aware that you have recently travelled to the other,” the advisory warns.
In a similar update, Canada has also advised its citizens to avoid all travel to Pakistan-administered Kashmir, as well as areas within 10 km of the LoC, excluding official border crossings.
