New Delhi, India – In response to rising geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, the Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi has issued a formal travel advisory for Thai nationals. The advisory follows a series of Indian airstrikes near the India-Pakistan border early Wednesday morning, part of a military operation known as Operation SINDOOR— a direct response to the April 22, 2025, terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including Indian and Nepali nationals.
According to Indian authorities, the strikes targeted locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir believed to be linked to armed groups. The situation has led to a rapid escalation in regional tensions, prompting multiple countries—including Thailand—to issue security updates for their citizens.
Travel Advisory Details for Thai Nationals
The Royal Thai Embassy has outlined the following guidance:
1. Stay Informed
Thai citizens in India are advised to follow official news sources, monitor developments through government announcements, and comply with local safety instructions.
2. Avoid High-Risk Areas
The embassy recommends postponing all non-essential travel to:
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The Line of Control (LoC)
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The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir
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Border areas between India and Pakistan
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Other locations identified as high-risk by local authorities
3. Emergency Contact
Thai nationals can reach the Consular Section of the Royal Thai Embassy via:
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Hotline: +91 95993 21484
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LINE ID: rte.del.consular
Travelers are also encouraged to register with the embassy and share their travel plans with family or close contacts for added security.
Impact on Air Travel and Transportation
The conflict has caused significant disruptions to international air traffic:
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Indian authorities closed several airports, resulting in cancellations and delays.
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Airlines including Thai Airways, Qatar Airways, EVA Air, and Korean Air have rerouted flights to avoid the affected airspace.
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Over 50 flights to and from Pakistan were canceled, with additional diversions reported.
Travelers should verify flight status directly with airlines and allow for extra time due to possible delays or rerouting.
Civilian Impact and Government Responses
Reports from both countries indicate civilian casualties and property damage:
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Pakistan’s authorities report 26 civilian deaths and at least 46 injuries following Indian airstrikes.
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In Pakistan-administered Kashmir, a mosque in Muzaffarabad was struck, resulting in at least one fatality.
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Indian officials report three civilian deaths from shelling and 48 injuries in retaliatory attacks.
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Schools in parts of Kashmir and Punjab have been closed, and emergency services are on high alert.
These developments have led to increased humanitarian concerns on both sides of the border.
Strategic Context and Military Developments
India stated the airstrikes targeted infrastructure linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), which are listed as terrorist organizations by multiple countries and the United Nations. The operation follows India’s recent acquisition of 26 additional Rafale fighter jets from France, part of its broader military modernization efforts.
Pakistan has informed the United Nations Security Council of the strikes and said it reserves the right to respond. It stated its military engagement occurred after Indian aircraft crossed into its airspace.
Economic and Market Response
The conflict has triggered market reactions across the region:
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The Indian rupee declined in non-deliverable forward markets.
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Shares of Asian airlines, including China Airlines and EVA Air, fell by over 2% due to rerouting concerns.
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Analysts suggest ongoing tensions could lead to broader volatility in financial markets and energy prices.
Summary for Thai Travelers
Thai nationals in or traveling to India should:
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Avoid high-risk areas, particularly near the border.
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Register with the Thai Embassy and stay in regular contact with family.
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Follow updates from official channels and local authorities.
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Confirm flight status before traveling and expect potential delays.
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