Nepal has said it was cutting the working week from six days to five for the civil service and educational institutions to cope with the energy crisis caused by the Middle East war, AFP reports.

Saturday had until now been the only day off each week for such workers in the Himalayan nation.

Government spokesperson Sasmit Pokharel told reporters the two-day weekend would come into effect this week.

“Given the present uncomfortable situation caused by fuel supply, the government and educational institutions remain closed for two days,” Pokharel said.

Government offices will now operate from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.