Amid rising tensions in West Asia, Nepal has announced a shift to a five-day workweek for government offices and educational institutions as it grapples with an ongoing fuel shortage triggered by the conflict,
involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
The decision was taken during an emergency Cabinet meeting on Sunday, replacing the existing six-day schedule with a two-day weekend—Saturday and Sunday. Until now, Saturday was the sole weekly holiday for employees in the Himalayan nation.
Nepal government’s spokesperson Sasmit Pokharel confirmed the development, AFP reported. Pokharel said the new system would be implemented from this week. “Given the present uncomfortable situation caused by fuel supply, the government and educational institutions remain closed for two days,” Pokharel said.
Move To Cut Fuel Consumption, Nepal Eyes EV Transition
Under the revised schedule, public offices will function from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. Authorities are also examining legal options to transition petrol and diesel vehicles to electric alternatives, although no detailed plan has been shared so far.
The move comes as Nepal faces mounting pressure due to its near-total dependence on India for petroleum imports, making it highly vulnerable to global supply disruptions. The state-run Nepal Oil Corporation has reported significant financial losses despite raising fuel prices, including a recent steep hike in aviation fuel rates.
To manage shortages, the government has introduced measures such as selling partially filled cooking gas cylinders and urging citizens to conserve fuel.
The energy crunch has also raised concerns for Nepal’s tourism-driven economy, as higher aviation fuel costs have pushed up airfares for both domestic and international travel.
The crisis is linked to escalating hostilities in the region following joint military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran, which have disrupted supply chains and affected global energy markets.
