New Delhi: In light of security concerns, the Consular (Visa) Section and the Department of Homeland Security - Immigration Office at the US Embassy and the Information Resource Centre (American Library) at the American Centre in New Delhi will close to the public on Thursday (August 5, 2004) a statement on the Embassy Web site said.

However, the Consulates General in Mumbai, Chennai and Calcutta will remain open for business as usual.

The website said, the Embassy will make every effort to continue to provide emergency services to American citizens on August 5. It has also provided assistance in case of an emergency outside business hours, saying American citizens may reach the Embassy duty officer by calling 2419-8000.

A US Embassy representative declined to comment on the specifics of possible threat, but said it was based on intelligence information.

The Press Trust of India reported sources as saying the US Homeland Security Department had warned authorities at the American mission of a possible attack, prompting the precautionary measures.

Some national dailies reported that the Embassy in New Delhi was warned of an al-Qaeda attack.

An official, on condition of anonymity is reported to have said that the security alert at the Embassy was prompted by information gathered from an al-Qaeda operative Ahmed Khalfan Ghailani who was captured in Pakistan.