US issues advisory in Chennai, suspends routine services

The US Consulate General here announced temporary suspension of appointments for routine services to US citizens and visa applicants on Monday.

The announcement was posted on the US Consulate General's website.

"The US Consulate General in Chennai will operate with reduced staffing on December 5, 2016, and has temporarily suspended appointments for routine services to the US citizens and visa applicants.

"Applicants will be informed by email. The Consulate will provide updates when routine services are restored," said the US Consulate General.

The announcement comes in the wake Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa suffering a cardiac arrest on Sunday evening and a large number of her AIADMK party cadres gathering near Apollo Hospitals where she was admitted.

The announcement also advised the US citizens to review their personal security plans; remain aware of their surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates.

"US citizens are reminded that even gatherings intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations," said the announcement.

The 68-year-old Jayalalithaa was admitted to the hospital for treatment of fever and dehydration on September 22. Doctors later said she needed a longer hospital stay as she was suffering from infection, and put her on respiratory support.

--IANS

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