In a significant shift to the country’s weekly routine, the Government of Nepal has officially introduced a two-day weekend (Saturday and Sunday) starting this week. The decision, aimed at combating skyrocketing fossil fuel prices and potential shortages due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, was finalized during a Cabinet meeting held on Sunday.
According to government spokesperson and Minister for Education, Sasmit Pokharel, the move is a strategic response to the global energy crisis. “This decision will reduce fuel dependency on one hand, and on the other, it will help increase the use of Nepal’s renewable energy,” Pokharel stated. The policy applies to all government offices and educational institutions nationwide.
Key Changes to Work and School Life
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New Weekend: Sundays are now an official holiday alongside Saturdays.
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Extended Hours: To maintain productivity, office hours have been shifted to 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (previously 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM).
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Immediate Effect: The new schedule is enforced starting today, Monday, April 6.
The Fuel Crisis Context
The decision comes as the Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) faces massive financial strain. Following the escalation of conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the U.S., international petroleum prices have reached record highs. In the Kathmandu Valley, petrol prices recently hit an unprecedented Rs 202 per liter, while diesel and kerosene rose to Rs 182 per liter.
Despite these price hikes, the NOC reported fortnightly losses exceeding Rs 11 billion. Experts suggest that reducing the workweek by one day will significantly decrease the consumption of fuel used for commuting and administrative operations.
Transition to Green Energy
Alongside the holiday announcement, the Cabinet has approved the preparation of legal frameworks to facilitate the conversion of fossil fuel vehicles into electric vehicles (EVs). This is part of a broader government agenda to reduce long-term reliance on imported petroleum and stabilize the economy against future geopolitical shocks.
While some administration experts warn of potential service delivery delays, many see the move as a necessary evolution. “If managed properly, the two-day weekend can improve work-life balance while meeting our urgent energy conservation goals,” noted Kashi Raj Dahal, former chairman of the Administrative Court.