Overlanding

If you were hoping to see tigers in Panna National Park in India whilst overlanding you will be unfortunately disappointed. The latest survey found no traces of tigers within the park. Tiger numbers have been in decline for a number of years primarily due to poaching, the reserves established back in 70’s have failed to control demise of the Tiger in India.
What have been your experiences whilst visiting India’s National Parks.

Overlanders may experience problems with Internet and phone communications between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia after submarine cables were severed around Malta and Egypt. The disrupted is likely to last until early next year until the underwater cables can be repaired.

Up to 100 people have been killed and many injured after a terrorist attack within the city of Mumbai at multiple locations. A Five-star hotel, crowded train station, a police station and at a restaurant popular with foreigners have been targeted. The situation is still ongoing and there are reports of hostages with the gunmen specifically targeting Americans and UK citizens.

It seems the fluctuating exchange rates are having an impact at Intrepid, as they may introduce a currency surcharge. On their website they are encouraging people to pay up! “Avoid any surcharge by paying in full by 30 November, 2008.”

The closure of Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok by anti-government protesters means all departing flights have been cancelled and there is a mixed picture on incoming flights depending on the airline.
Reports say Thailand’s army Chiefs have asked the government to dissolve parliament and call new elections, and for anti-government protesters to leave the airport. However according to Reuters both the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) and the government have rejected the army’s proposal. There are also reports of violence breaking out between the police and demonstrators.

Tucan update on the situation.

If you fancy a trip to Kasmir you can now get there by train. At present the completed 72-km route connects the towns of Rajwansher with Anantnag in the south, via Srinagar. The line will eventually be extended from Baramullah to Qazigund to link up with the rest of India’s railway network.

The recent flare up of long standing tensions between the two countries regarding the surrounding area of northern Preah Vihear Temple which is currently closed have caused the UK and Australian governments to warn tourist of the increased dangers of the area. General warnings have been issued for crossing the Thai-Cambodia border.

Update
Tucan Travel have stated that they will continue to operate tours through this border and if for any reason the situation changes again they will advise clients and amend the itinerary as necessary.

“Should any client feel that they would rather travel by air to avoid the Poi Pet border crossing, the tour leader will be more than happy to assist in arranging alternate transport. This flight will be at the client’s own expense and currently costs approx. US$250 one way.”

VSO UK is facing a 20% shortfall in volunteers due to the current financial turmoil. If you have some time on your hands maybe a volunteer placement is worth considering.

A magnitude of 6.6 has hit the Himalayan region. The earthquake struck at 4:30 pm (0830 GMT) and about 84 kilometres (50 miles) west of the Tibetan capital Lhasa, reported US Geological Survey.

Due to heavy monsoon rains in Asia Ozbus had to re-route a tour during the Northern India & Nepalese sectors, however they did not miss Kathmandu. A quote on Ozbus website by Tour leader Colin Smyth stated “The rains were incredible, many of the roads in Nepal had actually been washed away and we had to allow double the time to get anywhere”.

Once re routed the trip was able to be continue still on schedule. Eastern Bihar state in India has been badly affected with flooding as reports of up to 290 flood-related deaths from the worst floods in recent years.

Vast areas of farmland were damaged in the state after the Kosi river burst a dam in neighbouring Nepal and flooded areas downstream. Heavy rains have hit the region, raising fears of more flooding as authorities said more than 800 people were still missing.