New Delhi: The United States Embassy in Dhaka issued an advisory on Monday urging all American nationals in Bangladesh to exercise caution due to the unpredictable and volatile nature of the current political situation in the South Asian country. What began as peaceful protests by students in Bangladesh against a quota system for government jobs eventually turned into an uprising that forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee the country by helicopter. The end to her 15 years in power came after weeks of violent unrest during which nearly 300 people died, according to local media reports.
US embassy in Dhaka Issues Advisory
“Due to the unpredictable and volatile nature of the current situation, and the potential for increased violence, US citizens should shelter in a safe place, and strongly consider returning to the United States when safe to do so. Further violence connected to the government transition is possible. Gatherings and additional protests are unpredictable and may materialize quickly. Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news for updates. Phone service, SMS, and the internet have suffered frequent, recent interruptions”, US advisory read.
It added, “Dhaka’s main airport, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC), paused operations at 17:00 today and protestors continue to occupy the main airport road. Local ticket offices and travel agencies may be open. It may be easier to buy tickets online or overseas. Local contact information for some airline offices is below:
Cathay Pacific: +8801766698170, +8801766698168Qatar Airlines: +8809610 800800Emirates: +8809609001133Singapore Airlines: +8801841289173, +88022222284982Thai Airlines: +88028901807, +88 02-2222-90023 or +88 02-2222-96225Turkish Airlines: +8809614111555Saudia Airlines: +880255028070US Bangla Airlines: +8801777777810 Biman Bangladesh Airlines: +8809617111888 or +88028901600Air India: +8801847291388
U.S. Embassy Dhaka is open for limited operations only, and all routine consular services have been cancelled from August 5-7. U.S. mission personnel are currently sheltering in place.
Actions to Take
Avoid large crowds and protests, shelter in place when necessaryBe aware of your surroundings at all timesMonitor local newsRemain vigilantAlways carry your charged mobile phone for emergency communicationsConsider departing Bangladesh, check with airlines on availabilityMaintain an adequate supply of essential goods
Assistance:
US Embassy Dhaka, Bangladesh - (88) 02 5566 2000DhakaACS@state.govbd.usembassy.govState Department – Consular Affairs – 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444Bangladesh Country Information Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates+91 99970 45748: Emergency Information for American Citizens By U.S. EMBASSY DHAKA
For the unversed, protesters in Bangladesh defied a military curfew to march into the capital’s centre, following a weekend of violence that left dozens of people dead. As troops pulled back and internet access was restored, tens of thousands of people began to celebrate in the streets, and thousands stormed the leader’s official residence. Military chief Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman said the army would seek the president’s guidance to form an interim government as he called for calm in a public address Monday afternoon.
‘Shelter in Safe Place’: US Issues Advisory for Its Citizens in Bangladesh Amid Unrest world-news World News | Latest International Global World News | Todays Breaking News Headlines
