Nepal’s Supreme Court has overturned the mandatory requirement for a National Identity Card or its number to access essential banking services, including account operations, KYC updates, and mobile number changes. The ruling directs authorities to allow customers to use citizenship certificates and other valid identification documents until they obtain a National Identity Card or its number.
Shares held by founders and mutual funds in six companies listed on Nepal’s secondary stock market are set to be released from their lock-in periods over the next month. A total of 27,291,250 shares will become eligible for trading under applicable regulations, potentially increasing market supply and drawing investors’ attention to the companies.
As Dashain approaches, activity has increased at the Gaddachauki border crossing in Kanchanpur, with Nepali migrant workers returning from various Indian cities to celebrate the festival with their families. Authorities have strengthened security, established passenger assistance desks, and introduced health screenings to ensure safe and convenient travel during the festive season.
Navratri begins today with Ghatasthapana, the sacred ritual of sowing barley seeds to grow Jamara, a symbol of prosperity, good fortune, and blessings. Devotees across Nepal perform special prayers to Goddess Durga, marking the beginning of nine days of religious observance and worship.
A sudden surge in the Budhi Gandaki River has caused widespread destruction in Gorkha’s Chum Nubri Rural Municipality, washing away around 35 houses, damaging Machhikhola Bazaar, and destroying a suspension bridge to Kerauja. Rescue teams and helicopters have been deployed as authorities warn of potential flooding downstream toward the Trishuli confluence.
Rising floodwaters in the Budhi Gandaki River have swept away a vital bridge near Arughat Bazaar, completely disrupting transportation between Gorkha and Dhading. The latest incident follows the destruction of three bridges and dozens of homes and sheds across northern Gorkha, raising further concerns about flooding and riverbank erosion in downstream areas.
Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) is upgrading the Matatirta–Syuchatar 132 kV transmission line, which may disrupt electricity supply in parts of Kathmandu Valley on Saturday and Sunday.
National Cooperative Bank Limited has clarified its position on recent changes to the Cooperative Act, 2074, emphasizing legal compliance, transparent asset valuation, protection of members’ ownership, and stronger risk management to maintain financial stability in the cooperative sector.
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.