Here's some travel advice to keep you informed and safe when it comes
to travel to Pakistan...
Terrorism
Terrorism is a threat throughout the world. You can find more information about this threat in Travel Advisories.
We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Pakistan at this time due to the very high threat of terrorist attack and volatile and unpredictable security situation. Ask yourself whether, given your own personal circumstances, you are comfortable travelling to Pakistan knowing that you may be caught up in a terrorist attack. Ask yourself whether travel could be deferred or an alternative destination chosen. If, having considered these issues, you do decide to travel to Pakistan, you should exercise extreme caution. If you are already in Pakistan and concerned for your safety, consider departing.
We continue to receive reports that terrorists are planning attacks against a range of targets in Pakistan. These attacks could occur at any time. Terrorist attacks could be directed against any locations known to be frequented by foreigners, as well as premises and symbols associated with the Pakistan Government.
Recent credible reporting indicates a potential terrorist threat against Western hotels in Islamabad.
On 2 March 2006 a suicide bombing near the US Consulate and Marriott Hotel in Karachi killed four people, including a US diplomat. In September 2005 two western fast food outlets in Karachi were bombed, injuring a number of people. In November 2005 another bomb exploded outside a fast food outlet in Karachi (in an area with many Western businesses) that killed a number of people.
In planning your activities, consider the kind of places known to be terrorist targets such as clubs, restaurants, embassies and high commissions, international schools, international hotels, expatriate housing compounds, churches and other places of worship, shopping centres, outdoor recreation events, tourist areas and transport hubs or identifiably western interests, including businesses. Terrorists have kidnapped foreigners in the past and more kidnappings are possible.
In the past militants have mounted attacks in the lead-up to and on days of national significance such as Independence Day (14 August) and Pakistan National Day (23 March).
Security at the Australian High Commission in Islamabad is at a high level as a precautionary measure and the Government has, since 5 May 2004, authorised the voluntary departure of the dependants of Australian High Commission staff in Islamabad. Following the 2 March 2006 suicide bombing near the US Consulate and Marriott Hotel in Karachi, the Government has advised Australian diplomatic and consular staff in Pakistan to exercise extra security vigilance.
Civil Unrest/Political Tension
The security situation in Pakistan remains volatile and unpredictable. Sectarian violence is common in many parts of Pakistan, particularly in Karachi, Sindh, Balochistan, the North West Frontier Province and the Northern areas.
Frequent suicide bombings (several aimed at mosques) and assassinations have killed bystanders. The likelihood of attacks may increase during religious festivals, including the Islamic month of Muharram. Muharram ceremonies have in the past been marred by violence and large gatherings such as processions may be targeted. A suicide bomb attack on an Ashura procession on 9 February 2006 resulted in many deaths. Retaliation in response to attacks is common and has in the past resulted in further deaths.
Large, sometimes violent, demonstrations and threats to western interests have occurred in Pakistan over the publication in some western countries of cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed. Given their potential to turn violent, you should avoid such demonstrations, pay close attention to your personal security and monitor the media for updates.
Public gatherings have been targeted for attacks in the past.
Federally administered tribal areas and borders with Afghanistan and India: We advise you not to travel to the federally-administered tribal areas, and areas adjacent to Pakistan's borders with Afghanistan and India (particularly near the Line of Control in Kashmir) due to security concerns. Foreigners are, in any case, not permitted to travel in these areas without specific approval from relevant authorities. While there has been improvement in India-Pakistan relations since April 2003, the situation could change with little notice.
Baluchistan: Ongoing attacks on transport, including the railway network, communications and energy infrastructure in Baluchistan have intensified since the start of 2005 particularly in the Sui/Dera Bugti area. There have been attacks in 2005 and 2006 on both Pakistani and foreign workers in these sectors in both Baluchistan and other parts of south-west Pakistan. We remind you to exercise extreme caution if you decide to visit this area.
Crime
Violent crime, including armed robbery and kidnapping, occurs in many parts of Pakistan, particularly in Karachi. Pick-pocketing and petty theft is common in Pakistan.
Natural Disasters
Pakistan is in an active earthquake zone. Information on natural disasters can be obtained from the Humanitarian Early Warning Service. If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.
Local Law and Customs
Travellers are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws. Local
laws and legal processes can be very different from those at home. A violation
of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular
assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or
unjust by your standards.
Penalties for drug offences are severe in Pakistan and include the death penalty. Possession of even small quantities of "soft drugs" for recreational purposes can result in lengthy jail sentences, large fines and deportation.
The act of sodomy is illegal in Pakistan and penalties include life imprisonment. It is also illegal for unmarried heterosexual couples to live together.
There are strong Islamic codes of dress and behaviour in Pakistan and you should take care not to offend. Wearing short-sleeved garments and shorts should be avoided, as should physical contact between men and women in public. Women may be targets of harassment, particularly if they are unaccompanied.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa conditions change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy, High Commission or Consulate of Pakistan for the most up to date information.
Health Issues
The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has confirmed cases of avian influenza in birds in a number of countries throughout the world. For a list of these countries, visit the OIE website.
Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about immunisations
and disease outbreaks overseas. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides useful
tips for staying healthy while travelling overseas.
We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
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