Stay Informed: Updated Travel Advisories for Pakistan
Advisory issued on potential travel risks to Pakistan
Following India's air strikes on Pakistan, it's crucial for travelers to stay up-to-date with the latest travel advisories. Here's the lowdown:
The Scoop on Flights
After the air strikes, the Foreign Office suggests delaying any planned flights to Pakistan. Many airlines are still facing operational issues, even with the lifted flight ban, as per the current travel and security guidelines. There is also a possibility of short-term travel restrictions within the country and airspace closures. several airports in India, such as Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar, are temporarily closed.
Geographical Restrictions
The Foreign Office advises against visiting Jammu, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. The Wagah-Attari border crossing between India and Pakistan remains shut, with more travel restrictions possible. For German citizens in this area, it's advised to register with the Foreign Office's crisis prevention list.
General Travel Tips
With tensions running high, it's essential to stay informed about local conditions and avoid conflict zones. US citizens, in particular, are advised to sign up for the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates from the U.S. Embassy. While in Pakistan, it's important to stay alert, avoid drawing attention to yourself, and carry identification at all times.
Bonus Facts
- The U.S. Department of State has issued a "Do Not Travel" advisory for areas near the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control (LoC) due to the risks of terrorism and armed conflict[1][2][3].
- The rest of Pakistan remains under a "Reconsider Travel" advisory due to general safety concerns[1].
- There have been reports of airspace closures and flight cancellations due to the tensions[5].
So, before you pack your bags and head off on your adventure, make sure to stay informed and travel smart!
[1] https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/advisories/pakistan-travel-advisory.html[2] https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/22/world/asia/india-pakistan-clashes-kashmir.html[3] https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/6/19/india-strikes-in-kashmir-s-pakistan-at-least-five-killed[4] https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-strikes-terror-camps-deep-in-pakistan-s-kashmir-in-theater-level-response-to-february-14-terror-attack/story-z1gVkMlDhKRkDodkxgDn1L.html[5] https://stripes.com/features/airline-stocks-other-travel-stocks- tumble-despite-positive-travel-announcements-1.694386
- I'm not sure about traveling to Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, or Jammu in Pakistan due to the current advice against visiting these regions.
- I've seen reports of airspace closures and flight cancellations due to the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan, which might cause overnight disruptions to travel plans.
- To stay informed about the situation in Pakistan, I've registered with the Foreign Office's crisis prevention list and signed up for the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP).
- I keep myself updated on general news and war-and-conflicts, especially when it comes to the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control (LoC), as the U.S. Department of State has issued a "Do Not Travel" advisory for these areas.
