Notice on Extension of Countrywide Lockdown

29 March, 2020

In a bid to control the possible Coronavirus ("COVID-19") outbreak, the Government of Nepal ("GON") on March 29, 2020, has made a decision to further extend the ongoing countrywide lockdown till April 7, 2020. The GON, vide an Order dated March 23, 2020, had initially enforced the lockdown till March 31, 2020. As per the Order, except for essential tasks such as purchase of medicines and foodstuffs, individuals are restrained from leaving their house. Similarly, except for emergency vehicles or vehicles holding a special permit, all vehicle movements and domestic commercial flights have been suspended. Further, the GON has directed all private sectors, except for those providing emergency supplies or services, to grant a leave to their employees.

Earlie,, the GON and Supreme Court of Nepal, through separate Press Releases had notified that all public services and Court services, except for essential services or hearing on matters pertaining to individual liberty, shall remain suspended till April 3, 2020. However, due to the extension of lockdown period, the suspension shall now continue till April 7, 2020. Services provided by the Governmental agencies such as Company Registrar Office, Department of Industries (Intellectual Property Office) shall remain suspended till this period and all the deadlines falling within this period shall be extended until the services have resumed normal.

Amid the global impact caused by COVID-19, we are concerned for the health and well-being of our staff and their families, as well as our clients and their families.

As per the GON direction, we have implemented 'work from home' alternative for our lawyers and staffs. Our lawyers are fully equipped to work from home having remote access to our systems. Each lawyer and staff can be contacted at any time via email or mobile phones, teleconferencing, video-conferencing as usual.