New turmoil in Nepal

The mountain kingdom of Nepal has once again been plunged into turmoil by a strike that has reportedly “largely shut down” the capital, Kathmandu. According to the BBC News website, southern and central parts of the country have also been affected by the strike by Maoist rebels, who organised the action in protest at an army operation earlier this month. Some 19 of the Maoists, who are fighting to create a communist republic in the country, were killed in the operation. State radio reportedly states that 60 more rebels have also been killed in a separate operation in the western district of Kalikot. As reported by News From Abroad, the country has been plunged back into violence in the last few months, after a ceasefire broke down in August. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office website, at www.fco.gov.uk/travel, states: “You should be aware of the risk of indiscriminate attacks by terrorists in public places, including tourist sites. You should also take particular care to respect any local curfews. “If trekking, you are advised to remain on established routes, and to walk in groups and with reputable trekking agencies. You should be aware of a travel warning issued by the US Government, which advises of threats against US citizens and urges them to defer non-essential travel to Nepal.” Report by Tim Gillett, News From Abroad