This advice has been reviewed and reissued. It contains new information under Summary and Safety and Security: Civil Unrest/Political Tension (General Elections). The level of the advice has not changed.

Summary

Safety and Security

Terrorism

Terrorism is a threat throughout the world. You can find more information about this threat in our General Advice to Australian Travellers.

Past terrorist attacks in Bangladesh include:

• Three small explosive devices detonated in May 2007 at the Dhaka, Chittagong and Sylhet railway stations in apparent co-ordinated attacks.

* More than 400 bombs exploded simultaneously in August 2005 in all but one of Bangladesh's 64 districts. These attacks targeted domestic interests, including public places such as courts, government buildings and facilities, educational and religious institutions, a hospital, markets, bus terminals, railway stations and Zia International Airport.

There is a risk foreigners could be caught up in attacks directed at others. There is also a risk terrorists may target Western interests and individuals.

In mid-March 2006, the United States suspended indefinitely its Peace Corps program in Bangladesh due to the possibility of an attack by terrorist elements. This suspension has not been lifted.

In planning your activities, consider the kind of places known to be terrorist targets and the level of security provided. Possible targets include commercial and public areas, government buildings including courts, foreign government and commercial interests, military and police facilities, embassies, hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, markets and shopping areas, banks, places of worship, political rallies, cinemas, outdoor recreation and cultural events, public transport including bus terminals and railway stations, tourist areas and historic sites.

Civil Unrest/Political Tension

We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Bangladesh at this time due to the unpredictable security and political situation. Pay close attention to your personal security and monitor the media and local information sources for news of security risks and threats.

A state of emergency declared by the President in January 2007 remains in force although elements of it have been relaxed. Military presence on the streets has decreased. There have been a number of violent rallies and demonstrations around the national mosque and some public universities in Dhaka and provincial centres.

General elections are scheduled for 18 December 2008. Guidelines for Foreign Election Observers, including journalists, can be found at the Bangladesh Election Commission website.

Violence has traditionally been a characteristic of Bangladeshi politics. Political activity has been curtailed under the provisions of the state of emergency but as its provisions are gradually revoked, political activity could intensify during the campaign period. Such activity could include rallies and demonstrations, which have the potential to turn violent. Such events can occur anywhere and with little notice. Fatal bomb blasts linked to political activity have occurred in the past, including at rallies and in Dhaka.

Demonstrations, street rallies and public gatherings, including localised industrial and social disputes, can develop with little or no warning in provincial centres, major cities and at educational institutions and become catalysts for violence and civil disorder. These demonstrations often occur on weekends (Fridays and Saturdays), but can flare up at any time. You should avoid all such events and closely monitor the media and other local information sources for news about safety or security risks.

International events and political developments in the region may trigger demonstrations in Bangladesh. You should also read our travel bulletin entitled Release of a film by Netherlands MP Geert Wilders.

Chittagong Hill Tracts region: We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts region because of the high risk of kidnapping and politically motivated violence. In June 2007, three employees of a foreign aid agency were kidnapped in the Thanchi area of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. This is one of a number of incidents involving kidnapping for ransom over the past few years. The unstable security situation persists, as does the risk of kidnapping.

Crime

Criminal violence and armed robbery are common in Bangladesh. Thieves, often armed and operating in teams, prey upon people travelling in rickshaws (a popular mode of transport), taxis and CNGs (motorised rickshaws, also known as baby taxis).

Petty crime, including theft and purse snatching, is also common.

The risk of robbery increases after dark, especially on public transport. Avoid travelling alone on public transport and walking alone after dark.

Local Travel

Road travel, particularly at night and outside the major cities, is dangerous and fatalities are common. Cars, buses and trucks frequently drive without headlights or on full beam and at high speed. Drivers overtake other vehicles at inappropriate moments and head-on smashes are common. The practice of people sitting on the roof of buses and trains, coupled with severe overcrowding inside vehicles, adds to the risks. Roads are congested, road conditions can be hazardous and the traffic is chaotic. For further advice, see our bulletin on Overseas Road Safety.

Due to monsoon floods, most rural roads are built up and the shoulders can have a two to three metre drop.

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Traffic accidents, even minor ones, often attract large crowds of onlookers. The situation can quickly get out of control and turn violent. You should drive with caution and immediately contact police if you are involved in an accident.

Rickshaws travel erratically and their drivers show little traffic sense, failing to indicate and emerging from side streets at speed. Many are unlit at night and therefore difficult to see in the dark.

Train travel is risky as the tracks are dilapidated and there are a high number of unauthorised and unmanned crossings.

River craft such as ferries may be overloaded or lack necessary life-saving equipment. Hundreds of lives can be lost in major accidents.

Piracy occurs in the coastal areas of Bangladesh. See our travel advice on shipping and ports for more information. The International Maritime Bureau issues weekly piracy reports on its web site.

Airline Safety

Passengers on international flights to and from Australia are only allowed to carry a small amount of liquids (including aerosols and gels) in their carry-on baggage. You can find out more information at the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government website. Similar restrictions apply to flights in an increasing number of countries. Contact your airline for further information.

If you have concerns about the safety standards of a particular airline or aircraft, we recommend you research the airline or aircraft through organisations such as Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government has published fact sheets on security for air travellers. When staff at Australia's overseas missions are advised not to use particular airlines due to safety concerns, this will be included in the travel advisory.

The European Union (EU) has published a list of airlines that are subject to operating bans or restrictions within the EU. The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through its foreign assessment program focuses on a country's ability, not the individual airline, to adhere to international standards and recommended practices for aircraft operations and maintenance established by ICAO.

Natural Disasters, Severe Weather and Climate

Monsoon season and cyclones: During the monsoon season (June to September) and cyclone season (May to June and October to November) flooding and landslides can occur with little warning throughout the country. Services and transport are often affected.

In the event of a cyclone, monitor local media reports and follow the instructions of local emergency officials. The direction and strength of cyclones can change with little warning. You can check the latest information at the National Hurricane Center website. You should identify your local shelter if one is available. In some areas, adequate shelter from a severe cyclone may not be available to all who may choose to stay. You should also familiarise yourself with your hotel's evacuation plans.

Flights in and out of affected areas could be delayed or suspended. Available flights may fill quickly. You should contact your airline for the latest flight information. The cyclone could also affect access to sea ports in the region. You should carry your travel documents at all times (i.e. passport, picture identification, etc.) or secure them in a safe, waterproof location. We also suggest that you contact friends and family in Australia with updates about your welfare and whereabouts.

For further information, see our Travel Bulletin: Severe Weather – Cyclones, Hurricanes and Typhoons.

Earthquakes: Bangladesh is subject to earthquakes. You should take precautions and be prepared for a major emergency, including by maintaining a functional emergency kit.

Tsunamis: All oceanic regions of the world can experience tsunamis. The Indian and Pacific Oceans experience more frequent occurrences of large, destructive tsunamis because of the many large earthquakes along major tectonic plate boundaries and ocean trenches. See the Tsunami Awareness brochure.

Information on natural disasters can be obtained from the Humanitarian Early Warning Service. If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.

Wildlife Watching

Australians are advised to maintain a safe and legal distance when observing wildlife, including marine animals and birds. You should only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators and closely follow park regulations and wardens' advice.

Money and Valuables

Before you go, organise a variety of ways to access your money overseas, such as credit cards, travellers' cheques, cash, debit cards or cash cards. Check with your bank whether your ATM card will work overseas.

Make two photocopies of valuables such as your passport, tickets, visas and travellers' cheques. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home.

While travelling, don't carry too much cash and remember that expensive watches, jewellery and cameras may be tempting targets for thieves.

As a sensible precaution against luggage tampering, including theft, lock your luggage. Information on luggage safety is available from Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place. You are required by Australian law to report a lost or stolen passport. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible.

You are required to pay an additional fee to have a lost or stolen passport replaced. In some cases, the Government may also restrict the length of validity or type of replacement passports.

For Parents

If you are planning on placing your children in schools or childcare facilities overseas we encourage you to research the standards of security, care and staff training within those establishments. You should exercise the same precautions you would take before placing children into schools or childcare facilities in Australia.

Ideas on how to select childcare providers are available from the smartraveller Children's Issues page, Child Wise and the National Childcare Accreditation Council.

Local Laws

When you are in Bangladesh, be aware that local laws and penalties, including ones that appear harsh by Australian standards, do apply to you. If you are arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you but we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Information on what Australian consular officers can and cannot do to help Australians in trouble overseas is available from the Consular Services Charter.

Australians who might engage in activities that involve local legal matters, particularly with regard to family law (divorce, child custody and child support), are strongly advised to seek professional advice and ensure they are aware of their rights and responsibilities.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include mandatory prison sentences (including for small amounts of illegal drugs) and the death penalty. The death penalty may also be imposed for crimes including murder, trafficking of children, rape causing death, abduction, espionage and hijacking an aircraft.

Corporal punishment (whipping) may be used as an alternative sentence to jail.

Homosexual acts are illegal and penalties include imprisonment.

Some Australian criminal laws, such as those relating to money laundering, bribery of foreign public officials, terrorism and child sex tourism, apply to Australians overseas. Australians who commit these offences while overseas may be prosecuted in Australia.

Australian authorities are committed to combating sexual exploitation of children by Australians overseas. Australians may be prosecuted at home under Australian child sex tourism laws. These laws provide severe penalties of up to 17 years imprisonment for Australians who engage in sexual activity with children under 16 while outside of Australia.

Local Customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in Bangladesh and you should take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Shorts are not worn and women wear scarves around their necks and shoulders.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking between sunrise and sunset is forbidden for Muslims.

Public displays of affection are not socially acceptable.

Information for Dual Nationals

If you or your parents are of Bangladeshi origin, the Bangladeshi Government may consider you a Bangladeshi citizen, even if you have never held a Bangladeshi passport. In these circumstances, our ability to provide consular assistance, if needed, may be limited.

Entry and Exit Requirements

The Bangladeshi Government has introduced a requirement for all in-coming and out-going passengers to have an Immigration Service Code (IS Code). At this stage, the requirement only applies to those passengers entering or departing Bangladesh through Zia International Airport, Dhaka and is not being enforced. To obtain an IS Code, logon to the Bangladesh Immigration Police website and complete the online embarkation/disembarkation card. Once completed, the system will automatically generate an IS Code which can be presented to the immigration counter at Zia International Airport on arrival to, or departure from Bangladesh. The IS Code should be provided to your travel agent or airline to be recorded in the Passenger Name Recorder (PNR) field of your airline booking.

Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Bangladesh for the most up-to-date information.

Australian citizens working in Bangladesh are required to obtain an Income Tax Clearance Certificate or an Income Tax Exemption Certificate prior to each departure from Bangladesh. Full details of the requirements and those exempted from these requirements can be obtained from the Bangladesh Board of Revenue.

Health Issues

We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel.

Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about preventive measures, immunisations (including booster doses of childhood vaccinations) and disease outbreaks overseas. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides information for travellers and our Travelling Well brochure also provides useful tips for travelling with medicines and staying healthy while overseas.

The standard of medical facilities in Dhaka is poor and is very limited outside the capital, Dhaka. Doctors and hospitals generally require up-front payment prior to commencing treatment. In the event of a serious illness or accident, medical evacuation to a destination with the appropriate facilities would be necessary. Medical evacuation costs could exceed $A25,000.

Malaria is prevalent throughout rural areas of Bangladesh and outbreaks of other mosquito-borne diseases (including dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis) occur in many areas. We encourage you to take prophylaxis against malaria where necessary and take measures to avoid insect bites, including using insect repellent at all times.

Japanese encephalitis vaccine is currently unavailable in Australia. The Department of Health and Ageing is working with vaccine suppliers to make a vaccine available as soon as possible. For further details see the Department of Health and Ageing's website or consult your doctor.

Water-borne, food-borne and other infectious diseases (including HIV/AIDS, cholera, typhoid, hepatitis, Nipah virus, tuberculosis, polio and rabies) are prevalent with more serious outbreaks occurring from time to time. We encourage you to consider having vaccinations before travelling. We recommend you boil all drinking water or drink bottled water, avoid ice cubes and raw and undercooked food. Do not swim in fresh water to avoid exposure to certain water-borne parasites. Seek medical advice if you have a fever or are suffering from diarrhoea.

Avoid temporary 'black henna' tattoos and body painting as they often contain a dye which can cause serious skin reactions and permanent allergies. For further information see the Australasian College of Dermatologists' website.

Australians overseas are advised to avoid all milk products manufactured in China. For further information, please see our Travel Bulletin on "Contaminated Dairy Products".

Avian Influenza: The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed a human case of avian influenza in Bangladesh. The Department of Health and Ageing advises Australians who reside in Bangladesh for an extended period to consider, as a precautionary measure, having access to influenza antiviral medicine for treatment. Long term residents are at a greater risk of exposure to avian influenza over time. You should seek medical advice before taking antiviral medicines. Australians intending to travel to Bangladesh for shorter periods are at much lower risk of infection, but should discuss the risk of avian influenza with their doctor as part of their routine pre-travel health checks.

If the avian influenza virus mutates to a form where efficient human-to-human transmission occurs, it may spread quickly and local authorities could move quickly to impose restrictions on travel. Australian travellers and long-term residents in Bangladesh should be prepared to take personal responsibility for their own safety and well-being, including deciding when to leave an affected area and ensuring they have appropriate contingency plans in place. Australians in Bangladesh should monitor the travel advice and bulletin for updated information and advice, and ensure that their travel documents, including passports and visas for any non-Australian family members, are up-to-date in case they need to depart at short notice.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has confirmed cases of avian influenza in birds in a number of countries throughout the world, including Bangladesh. For a list of these countries, visit the OIE website. Current widespread outbreaks of avian influenza in poultry and other birds have been reported in Bangladesh. The current outbreaks may pose a risk to human health due to the possibility of contact with infected birds.

Where to Get Help

In Bangladesh, you can obtain consular assistance from the:

Australian High Commission
184 Gulshan Avenue
Gulshan
Dhaka, BANGLADESH
Telephone: (880 2) 881 3105
Facsimile: (880 2) 881 1125
Website: www.bangladesh.highcommission.gov.au

The High Commission is open Sunday to Thursday in accordance with local practice.

If you are travelling to Bangladesh, whatever the reason and however long you'll be there, we encourage you to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. You can register on-line or in person at any Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate. The information you provide will help us to contact you in an emergency - whether it is a natural disaster, civil disturbance or a family issue.

In a consular emergency if you are unable to contact the High Commission you can contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or 1300 555 135 within Australia.

In Australia, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra may be contacted on (02) 6261 3305.