Nepal Considers Implementing Odd-Even Traffic System and Increasing Weekly Holidays Amid Supply Disruptions

As the ongoing war in the Middle East disrupts the global supply of petroleum products and gas, Nepal is preparing to adopt measures similar to those of countries like Sri Lanka, including increasing weekly holidays and implementing an odd-even vehicle system. The spokesperson for the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies has provided information regarding these steps. These measures are aimed at protecting Nepal from the adverse effects of the supply disruptions.

According to Chandikaprasad Bhatt, Executive Director of the Nepal Oil Corporation, the corporation has already recommended to the government ways to reduce petroleum consumption. However, as these measures involve political and policy decisions, the Oil Corporation alone cannot make final decisions. Ministry spokesperson Netraprasad Subedi stated, “Discussions are ongoing regarding measures to reduce traffic congestion.”

Vijay Swar, President of the Nepal National Transport Entrepreneurs Federation, emphasized that while these measures could reduce fuel consumption, the right of citizens to commute must be respected. He stated, “This is a crisis management issue, and efforts can be made to facilitate the situation after thorough discussions.”

Evaluating the crisis, spokesperson Subedi highlighted that the concern extends beyond locally produced rice to lentils, edible oils, and other imported goods from countries other than India. He also noted an increased demand for cooking LPG gas and a rise in cooking oil prices.