India: Authorities to increase security in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala State, for prime minister's visit April 24-25

Event

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala State, April 24-25. The local unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which Modi belongs to, plans to stage a roadshow to welcome Modi upon his arrival in Kochi, April 24. However, it is unclear whether Modi will attend the roadshow. On April 24, the prime minister will stay in Kochi, participating in a rally and attending a conference at SH College, Thevara. On April 25, Modi will inaugurate the Kochi Water Metro before traveling to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV) to inaugurate the Vande Bharat Express.

A heightened security deployment and traffic restrictions are almost certain at event venues and routes used by Prime Minister Modi. Officials may reroute or curtail public transport serving the affected areas. Protests by activists opposed to Modi or BJP policies are possible; police will move quickly to contain these; violence is possible.

Advice

Exercise caution in the affected area. Confirm business appointments, road status, and transport reservations in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, April 24-25. Plan for travel delays and possible business disruptions. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks. Heed all security and traffic advisories. If protests occur, depart the area immediately.