SL issues travel advisory on Nepal

As violence in Nepal over a proposed new Federal Constitution continued, Sri Lanka issued a travel advisory on Friday (11) urging pilgrims to postpone their visits to the Buddhist religious site Lumbini, until the situation calms down.

The Sri Lanka's mission in Kathmandu said there had been disruptions to transport and other services in a number of cities due to ongoing protests. The mission has repatriated some pilgrims who were stranded in Lumbini amidst the violence.

According to foreign media, the death toll due to clashes has reached 39. The Tara community in Nepal's southern plains who has close ties to India has violently opposed the proposed federal structure because it will split their narrow territory.

The Nepal's three main political parties have agreed to halt the constitution drafting and hold discussions to settle the issues but according to foreign media the dissenting groups have refused for a dialogue.

The Foreign Ministry release added:"The Sri Lanka Embassy in Nepal advises any Sri Lankan nationals seeking to visit Lumbini to contact officials of the Embassy in Kathmandu (Telephone: 00977 1 4720213), before undertaking travel, so they may be advise on local situation."

- MF