Varanasi blasts: US issues advisory to citizens

US Embassy in New Delhi has issued an advisory asking American citizens to be aware of additional security measures.

In the backdrop of Varanasi bomb blasts, the US Embassy in New Delhi has issued an advisory asking American citizens to be aware of additional security measures.

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The steps may be imposed by authorities or disturbances in Uttar Pradesh or elsewhere.

"American citizens travelling throughout India should monitor news reports regarding any additional security measures that may be imposed by authorities in Varanasi or elsewhere, or any demonstrations or other disturbances that may arise as a result of the bombings, particularly through the .. Holi religious festival," it said.

Giving details of the March 7 bombings in Varanasi and specifically mentioning that no foreigner had been affected in these, the advisory said security has been increased at many religious sites and popular tourist locations.

With particular reference to Varanasi, it said although police officials have not imposed formal curfew there, "additional security measures implemented by local police could pose inconveniences to travellers wishing to travel around the city, as well as those wishing to arrive in or depart from the city by air, rail and road."

It said the Varanasi blasts followed a similar pattern to an incident in Delhi in October, 2005 in which a series of bombs exploded in markets in the early evening hours, apparently timed to occur at the busiest time of the day for shoppers.