The United States State Department has urged American nationals in Pakistan to remain vigilant during the general elections in the country which are scheduled to take place on February 8.

“US citizens should remain vigilant and aware of the locations of political rallies occurring in areas they intend to visit,” it said in a travel advisory on Friday.

In the run-up to the elections, bomb blasts and firing incidents have been reported in different parts of the South Asian country.

The country’s top electoral authority has stated that polls would be held on February 8 even though there were security concerns.

“On February 8, election day, areas around polling stations may be crowded, and US citizens not eligible to participate in Pakistan’s elections should avoid them,” it said.

The statement added that disruptions to internet and cellular service could occur leading up to and throughout election day and immediately following.

Netblocks, an independent observer, last month reported that there was “national-scale” disruption to platforms including YouTube, Instagram, X and Facebook when the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf was holding its second virtual gathering.

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But the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority claimed that it was due to a technical fault which was restored after a couple of hours.

The statement added that public gatherings have the potential to block traffic, disrupt transportation, and otherwise create obstacles to free movement and safety. In some instances, political activities in Pakistan have been targeted for violence, it added.

The embassy asked its citizens to take following actions:  

• Avoid areas of large public gatherings.
• Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of a large gathering and/or demonstration.
• Review your personal security plans.
• Monitor local media for updates.
• Keep a low profile.
• Carry identification and cooperate with police.