US issues travel advisory to its citizens in Pakistan ahead of Feb 8 elections

The US State Department on Saturday issued a travel advisory for its citizens in Pakistan ahead of the February 8 general elections.

The US embassy asked its citizens to remain vigilant and aware of the locations of political rallies occurring in areas they intend to visit.

“On February 8, election day, areas around polling stations may be crowded, and US citizens not eligible to participate in Pakistan’s elections should avoid them,” it said.

“Political parties are and will be, actively campaigning in advance of election day, including marches, rallies, and speeches, which are normal activities in any democratic process,” it added.

Public gatherings have the potential to block traffic, disrupt transportation, and otherwise create obstacles to free movement and safety, the States Department added.

The advisory also warned that disruptions to internet and cellular service could occur leading up to and throughout election day and immediately following.

Furthermore, American citizens in Pakistan have also been asked to keep a low profile and carry their identification.

For assistance, US citizens in Pakistan can contact the US Embassy in Islamabad and the US Consulate Generals in Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar, as well as the State Department’s Consular Affairs in Washington.

The advisory also encouraged enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (Step) for security updates, with additional information available on the US Embassy’s official website.