KATHMANDU: The government of Nepal is likely to extend the nationwide lockdown by another week on Monday.

A meeting of the cabinet to be held this afternoon is likely to extend the lockdown by one week, sources said.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister KP Oli is also addressing the nation, most probably on Monday afternoon.

Today’s cabinet meeting is likely to discuss the ongoing lockdown and take further steps, including taking additional decisions on procuring medical supplies through government to government (G2G) arrangements.

Nepalis have been living under strict rules for the last two weeks, with most shops, stores, and restaurants and other businesses shut. The people have not been allowed to leave their homes unless deemed essential.

The government had initially imposed the week-long lockdown from March 24. However, the government extended the lockdown on March 29 by another week, until April 7.

Nepal has, so far, seen nine coronavirus confirmed cases. While one has already recovered, eight others are receiving medical treatment in various hospitals.