KATHMANDU, APRIL 7
The government has announced a set of policy measures to address the worsening fuel supply crisis and rising economic burden.
Speaking after a Cabinet meeting, Minister for Federal Affairs and General Administration Pratibha Rawal said the government has decided to provide a 50 percent waiver on customs duties and infrastructure development tax on the import of petrol, diesel and kerosene.
She said the government has incurred losses of around Rs 11.72 billion in the past 15 days due to the fuel situation.
To reduce fuel consumption, the government has already introduced a two-day weekly public holiday and is considering implementing an odd-even vehicle system if necessary.
The government has also urged the public to increase the use of electric vehicles and adopt work-from-home practices where possible. Measures such as controlling bulk fuel sales and reducing fuel usage by high-level officials have already been implemented.
Rawal said the government is promoting long-term alternatives, including policies to encourage the use of ethanol and expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure.
She added that legal provisions for vehicle conversion and related policy frameworks are being developed as part of broader efforts to reduce dependence on petroleum products.
