Floods and landslides have disrupted road connectivity across Nepal, with major highways in Rasuwa and the Beni-Jomsom road section completely blocked. One-way traffic is operating at three other locations, according to Nepal Police.
The government has directed authorities to take immediate legal action against black marketing, artificial shortages, and excessive public transport fares ahead of Dashain. It has also announced intensified market inspections to ensure the smooth supply of essential goods.
The government has recommended three ordinances related to land, disaster management, and forest laws for presidential issuance while directing action against 1,167 employees for failing to follow office hours or wear prescribed uniforms. It has also announced tighter market and transport monitoring ahead of the festive season.
The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) has introduced an additional 0.50% Smart Pay Reward for domestic consumers paying electricity bills through digital platforms. The scheme will initially run for six months, while the existing 2% discount for payments made within seven days of meter reading will remain unchanged.
Bus Sewa has opened advance bus ticket bookings for Dashain from Thursday, Ashoj 23. Passengers booking through its website and mobile app can receive discounts of up to Rs. 100, along with additional cashback offers through partner banks and digital payment services.
Nepal Oil Corporation and the Nepal LP Gas Industry Association have agreed to allow consumers to exchange empty LPG cylinders of any brand for full cylinders of another brand without additional charges from Ghatasthapana to Phulpati. Five exchange outlets have been provisionally identified across Kathmandu Valley to ensure smooth gas supplies during Dashain.
The Dashain homecoming rush has begun, with more than 300,000 people reportedly leaving Kathmandu to celebrate the biggest festival with their families in their hometowns and villages.
Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Iraq and Kuwait are increasing oil exports as shipments through the Strait of Hormuz gradually recover, intensifying competition for market share lost during the Iran war.
A total of 788 climbers from 70 countries have obtained permits to climb 31 mountains in Nepal during the autumn season, generating Rs 24.72 crore in royalty revenue for the government.
Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has formally assumed the position of Senior Leader of the CPN-UML, taking her oath before party Chairman KP Sharma Oli.
Around 73% of electricity consumers still visit physical counters to pay their bills, while the Nepal Electricity Authority spends nearly Rs 59.79 crore annually to operate these payment counters.
Gas consumers in Kathmandu Valley will be able to exchange an empty LPG cylinder of any brand and purchase gas from designated locations during Dashain, with no additional exchange fee.