After US, Aus issues terror alert for Delhi markets

Australia on Thursday warned its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution and avoid some of the shopping areas and markets in New Delhi because of the high risk of terrorist activity.

The Australian warning comes a day after the US embassy in New Delhi on Wednesday asked its citizens in India to refrain from visiting congested areas of Delhi following 'increased indications' of terrorists planning attacks.

Though Australia has not upgraded its travel advisory on India but the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade today updated its travellers' website to give information about the new warnings.

"On 21 April, the United States and Canada issued separate warnings about possible attacks against markets frequented by foreigners in New Delhi. According to these warnings, specific and credible information suggests that markets including Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, Greater Kailash, Karol Bagh, Mehrauli, and Sarojini Nagar could be targeted by terrorists in the coming days or weeks. We strongly advise Australians to minimise their presence in market areas of New Delhi," it said.

It further asked visitors to pay close attention to their personal security at all times and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks.

"Terrorist attacks could occur at any time anywhere in India with little or no warning," it said. "We continue to receive reporting of possible threats against prominent business and tourist locations, including in Mumbai and New Delhi. Credible reporting suggests that terrorists may be planning attacks in India directed at hotels frequented by foreigners, including perceived western owned hotels," it said.

Citing that there was a continuing threat from terrorism throughout India and major secular and religious holidays could provide terrorist groups an opportunity or pretext to stage an attack, it said: "We judge that terrorists may target prominent religious sites such as the Ram temple site in Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh... We advise travellers to register their travel and contact details in advance of their trip."