Kathmandu, April 13:

The US State Department has authorised voluntary departure from Nepal for non-emergency US mission personnel and their families, at the recommendation of the US embassy in Kathmandu.

The Department took the decision yesterday. “This authorisation means that non-emergency employees, their family members, and families of employees who must remain in their posts can opt for leaving Nepal in the coming days,” stated a notice issued by the American Centre today.

The Embassy recommended this step following a week of widespread demonstrations, violence, and growing instability throughout Nepal. The US mission to Nepal includes the embassy, USAID, and the consular section and American Centre. The consular section and American Centre Library have been closed until further notice.

The State Department has also updated its travel advisory warning for Nepal to alert US citizens to ongoing security concerns here. It stated that the Department of State continues to urge US citizens to defer non-essential travel to Nepal. “The Department of State remains concerned about the security situation in Nepal, and continues to urge American citizens to defer non-essential travel to Nepal,” stated the travel warning.

It said the State Department was concerned by the threat to the personal safety of Americans in Nepal posed by the recent demonstrations. “Political parties have indicated that they plan to continue to hold protests and mass demonstrations against the government. Protesters in the past have used violence, including burning vehicles, throwing stones during street demonstrations and burning tires,” stated the travel warning.

It added: “Police have responded with tear gas and baton-charges. Given the nature, intensity and unpredictability of these disturbances, American citizens are urged to exercise special caution during times when demonstrations are announced, avoid areas where demonstrations are occurring or crowds are forming, avoid road travel and maintain a low profile.”