KATHMANDU: Singha Durbar, the main administrative hub of Nepal’s federal government, appeared completely deserted on Sunday after the government implemented a two-day weekend policy.

Areas that are usually bustling with ministers, civil servants, and service seekers on regular working days remained unusually quiet, with only security personnel present. Roads and ministry premises inside the complex saw almost no movement of people or vehicles.

The main administrative buildings and streets within Singha Durbar looked entirely empty throughout the day.

The government had introduced the policy on a trial basis to reduce fuel consumption and cut public expenditure. Under the new arrangement, government offices remain closed on Saturdays and Sundays, while office hours during the remaining five working days have been extended from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

As a result of the new system, government activities remained halted on Sunday, leaving the corridors and gardens of Singha Durbar unusually silent.