West Asia war effect:Nepal Announces Two-Day Weekly Holiday Amid Fuel Shortage Crisis

Kathmandu, April 5, 2026 In a significant move aimed at tackling the ongoing fuel crisis, the government of Nepal has decided to implement a two-day weekend across the country. The decision was taken during a recent cabinet meeting as authorities seek to conserve dwindling petroleum supplies. According to officials, the shortage of petroleum products has put increasing pressure on transportation, industries, and daily life. By introducing an additional weekly holiday, the government hopes to reduce fuel consumption, particularly in urban commuting and administrative operations. This is not the first time Nepal has adopted such a measure. Similar steps were previously implemented during periods of acute fuel shortages, showing short-term effectiveness in managing demand. Government sources indicated that all public offices will observe the revised weekend schedule, while essential services will continue to function without disruption. The private sector is also being encouraged to follow suit wherever possible. The move comes amid broader concerns over supply chain disruptions and rising global energy costs, which have severely impacted fuel availability in the Himalayan nation. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have hinted that further measures could be introduced if the crisis persists.