(MENAFN) Nepal started loosening its limitations on Saturday as a transitional government, led by ex-Chief Justice Sushila Karki as prime minister, assumed power in the mountainous nation.

The lockdown and restriction orders were removed in the capital city of Kathmandu, although certain high-risk zones will remain inaccessible.

These measures were initially put in place following major demonstrations earlier in the week that escalated into violence.

Since Monday, at least 51 individuals have lost their lives and many more have been wounded due to the unrest, which was sparked by a social media blackout enforced by the prior administration.

What began as outrage over the online ban quickly transformed into a larger protest movement accusing the ruling class of "corruption" and "nepotism," with activists targeting government buildings, including the "Supreme Court" and private homes of officials.

Karki was named Nepal’s inaugural female prime minister by President Ramchandra Paudel on Friday in a groundbreaking decision, appointing a national leader from outside the legislature.

Shortly after Paudel conducted Karki's "oath of office," the 275-member legislative body was officially disbanded, and new elections have been planned for March.

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