Embassy of India
Kabul, Afghanistan

Security situation in Wardak Province

Security situation in Wardak Province
 
Details

           In view of unfavourable security situation prevailing in Wardak province in general and Maidan Shahr in particular, UN has temporarily suspended all its missions to Wardak Province with immediate effect except for Behsud 1 and Behsud 2 which reportedly remain safely accessible through Bamiyan.

2.         As you are aware, Indians in Afghanistan are contributing significantly in the reconstruction process creating tremendous goodwill amongst Afghans. Indians are also spread out in large number of provinces in Afghanistan, either when they are working for international organizations, Public Sector Undertakings and with Private Indian or international companies. In the course of their work, they have to undertake journeys either by road or by air exposing them in the process. Further, as observed during 2006, 2007 and 2008, international community aiding in the construction process have been targets of forces that do not want the situation to stabilize or normalize. Kidnapping of members of international community has been resorted to by undesirable elements to coerce the government into acquiescing to unreasonable demands and in the process creating a fear psychosis amongst internationals.

3.         In view of the present security situation in Wardak and other provinces bordering Kabul province, all Indian nationals in Afghanistan are advised to avoid their movements to Wardak province till the situation normalizes. It is also advised that unnecessary road journeys to the other provinces (Logar, Ghazni, Paktia, Khost and Nangarhar, etc) adjacent to Kabul province may also be avoided.

4.         As has been advised from time to time through advisories, Indians must remain extra cautious and be aware of their surroundings in which they work or live. Towards this end, it is reiterated that in case of road journey is to be performed, adequate security protection in the convoy or in the vehicle should be carried. Tendency to avoid taking the security component must not be encouraged. Keeping a safe distance from International Military/ANA/ANP convoys is again reiterated for your own safety and security, as they continue to be a target of militants.

(Pranab Nanda)
Counsellor (PA)
All Indians in Afghanistan (Through Email)