Nepal introduces two-day weekend amid fuel crisis linked to regional conflict
The change, announced on April 5, means offices and schools will now remain closed on both Saturdays and Sundays, compared with a previous six-day schedule with only Saturday off
Nepal has introduced a two-day weekend for government offices and educational institutions as it grapples with a deepening fuel shortage triggered by global supply disruptions, authorities said.
The change, announced on April 5, means offices and schools will now remain closed on both Saturdays and Sundays, compared with a previous six-day schedule with only Saturday off. Institutions will operate from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm during the remaining five days, says Al Jazeera.
The fuel shortage stems from a broader geopolitical crisis following a joint offensive by the United States and Israel on Iran on February 28, 2026. Retaliatory strikes by Tehran have disrupted global energy markets and aviation supply chains.
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The situation has exposed Nepal's structural vulnerabilities. The landlocked nation of about 30 million people has no domestic fossil fuel production and relies almost entirely on India for its fuel needs, leaving it highly susceptible to international price shocks and supply disruptions.
The crisis has raised concerns for the country's tourism-dependent economy. Aviation fuel prices nearly doubled in early April, prompting airlines to increase fares on both domestic and international routes, making travel more expensive for visitors.
State-owned Nepal Oil Corporation is facing mounting losses despite implementing multiple price hikes, reflecting the strain on public finances.
Authorities have introduced a range of measures aimed at managing limited supplies and curbing demand. These include selling half-filled cooking gas cylinders to discourage hoarding, urging the public to reduce fuel consumption, and considering legal steps to convert petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles to electric alternatives.
Government spokesperson Sasmit Pokharel said the proposals on vehicle conversion were discussed at an emergency cabinet meeting, but did not provide further details.
Officials have described the situation as an "uncomfortable situation" as the country attempts to cope with the ongoing supply disruptions.
