Nepal Implements Two-Day Weekend Amid Oil Supply Crisis

Key Takeaways

Two-day weekend for offices and schools announced in Nepal.

Change in working hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for government offices.

Legal framework to support transition to electric vehicles is in development.

Global oil supply disruptions are significantly impacting Nepal's economy.

Rising prices of fuel and essential goods are affecting daily life.

Kathmandu, April 5 (NationPress) In light of persistent disruptions in fuel supplies stemming from the turmoil in West Asia, the government of Nepal has announced a two-day weekend for both public offices and educational institutions.

According to the new directive, public holidays will be observed on Saturdays and Sundays for government entities and schools. The Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Youth and Sports, and government spokesperson, Sasmit Pokharel, stated that a Cabinet meeting held on Sunday reached this decision, taking into account the ongoing global oil supply challenges impacting the economy, especially across Asian nations.

The minister further noted that government offices, apart from educational institutions, will now operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, a shift from the previously established hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Additionally, the Nepal Cabinet has resolved to draft the necessary legal framework to support the transition of petrol and diesel vehicles to electric vehicles. While there has been a notable shift towards electric cars among new registrations in Nepal, combustion engine vehicles still dominate the landscape due to earlier purchases.

The ongoing conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for approximately 20% of the world’s fuel supply.

Many Asian countries are significantly reliant on West Asian oil for energy, transport, and cooking, among other applications.

India, a neighboring country, also heavily depends on oil and gas from this region. Since Nepal relies entirely on India for refined fuel and gas, the availability in Nepal is contingent on India's supply capabilities.

Amidst these oil supply disruptions, fuel prices have spiked in Nepal's domestic market. In conjunction with fuel, the costs of various food and non-food items have also surged, impacting households and businesses.

Point of View

It is essential to recognize the proactive measures taken by the Nepali government in response to the global oil crisis. The decision to implement a two-day weekend reflects a commitment to ensuring the welfare of its citizens amidst challenging economic conditions. This shift not only highlights the interconnectedness of global events but also emphasizes the need for adaptive policies in times of uncertainty.

NationPress

13 Jul 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Why has Nepal implemented a two-day weekend?

Nepal has implemented a two-day weekend due to ongoing disruptions in oil supplies linked to the conflict in West Asia, which has significantly raised fuel prices.

What are the new operating hours for government offices?

Government offices will now operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, a change from the previous hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

How does the conflict in West Asia affect Nepal?

The conflict has led to significant disruptions in fuel supplies, impacting Nepal's reliance on India for refined fuel and causing price surges in domestic markets.

What measures is the Nepali government taking to transition to electric vehicles?

The Nepali Cabinet is preparing a legal framework to facilitate the conversion of petrol and diesel vehicles to electric vehicles to address energy sustainability.

How are rising fuel prices affecting the economy in Nepal?

Rising fuel prices have led to increased costs for various goods and services, adversely affecting households and businesses across the country.