14 Jun 2022 | 07:17 AM UTC
Nepal: Officials to reinstate government office working hours from June 15 as other measures to ease foreign exchange reserve shortage continue /update 1
Nepal to reverse changes in working hours for public sectors from June 15. Import controls continue. Protests, disruptions possible.
Event
Nepal will reinstate usual working hours for the public sector from June 15; operating hours will be 10:00-17:00 daily except Saturday. The government had mandated government offices to open 09:30-17:30 Monday-Friday since May 15 as part of efforts to control fuel expenditure amid dwindling foreign exchange reserves. Related measures will continue until further notice. Officials have banned imports of ten nonessential items such as alcohol, diamonds, tobacco, toys, and most automobiles through at least July 15.
Demonstrations by civil, political, labor, and trade groups are possible over further austerity measures. Inflation and shortages affecting essential items and raw materials for business are especially likely to trigger protests and strikes. Disruptive protests are most likely in major cities like Kathmandu. Popular protest venues include government buildings, public squares, major intersections, and political party and trade union offices. Hundreds of people may attend larger rallies.
Authorities will likely monitor gatherings and may cordon off roadways near events, causing localized transport disruptions. Police may use force to disperse protests, including firing tear gas and using water cannons. Significant violence may prompt localized business disruptions.
Context
Nepal is facing declining foreign exchange reserves fueled by low tourism income due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reduced remittances from overseas Nepalis, as well as rising imports. Officials have stated current reserves will service imports for appoximately six months as the government attempts to resolve the situation.
Advice
Avoid gatherings due to possible violence. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately. Allow additional travel time near protests. Monitor trusted local media for updates on demonstrations as organizers may not announce them in advance. Ensure contingency plans account for shortages of essential items, as well as operational disruptions due to work stoppages and government restrictions. Heed all official instructions.
