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Reviewed: 2 May 2013, 09:00 NZDT
Still current at:
25 May 2013
There is high risk to your security in the Chittagong Hill Tracts region due to the threat of politically motivated and ethnic violence. We advise against all tourist and other non-essential travel to this region.
There is some risk to your security elsewhere in Bangladesh due to civil unrest and we advise caution.
Chittagong Hill Tracts region
The Chittagong Hill Tracts region comprise the districts of Rangamati, Khagrachari and Bandarban. This does not include the city of Chittagong or other parts of Chittagong Division.
Politically motivated and ethnic violence is an issue in the Chittagong Hill Tracts region. In September 2012, rioting led to the destruction of several Buddhist monasteries, two Hindu temples, and over 100 houses.
There are regular reports of violent crime in the Chittagong Hill Tracts region. In particular, travellers should be alert to the threat of kidnapping and armed robbery in remote areas.
Civil Unrest
Demonstrations, nationwide strikes (hartals) and localised industrial disputes are common throughout Bangladesh. Often this civil unrest escalates into violence, causing deaths, injuries and significant property damage. Recently, the majority of politically motivated violence has occurred in response to domestic political developments. This will likely continue in the lead up to national elections in early 2014.
New Zealanders are advised to avoid all political demonstrations, rallies and large public gatherings as they could turn violent with little warning. You should monitor the local media for information and follow any advice or instructions issued by the local authorities.
Piracy
Piracy is a problem in the waters of the Indian subcontinent. In Bangladesh pirates typically target ships preparing to anchor, particularly at Chittagong anchorages and approaches. Mariners are advised to take appropriate precautionary measures in these waters. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau's piracy report.
General Travel Advice
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Bangladesh should have comprehensive travel and medical insurance policies that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Bangladesh are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for South Asia
For other countries' travel adviceBritain - United States - Canada - Australia
Contact details are:
Street Address: Sir Edmund Hillary Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110 021, India
Telephone: +91 11 4688 3170
Facsimile: +91 11 2688 3165
Email: newzealandhc@bol.net.in
Website: New Zealand High Commission New Delhi [external link]
Office Hours: Mon - Fri 0830 - 1700 hrs
Contact details are:
Street Address: 'AVANTI', Apartment No.B4, House No.37, Road No.27, Block-A, Banani, Dhaka - 1213.
Telephone: 008802-9856334 and 008802-9856335 Mobile:00880-1730045045 Facsimile: 008802- 9856390
Email: neaz.ahmed09@gmail.com
