In a bid to facilitate uninterrupted financial operations during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, Bangladesh Bank has directed selected branches situated near the country’s ready-made garment (RMG) hubs to remain open on a limited basis. This measure primarily aims to ensure timely disbursement of workers’ salaries, allowances, and bonuses, as well as to support exporters in settling bills efficiently.
The directive was issued on Tuesday, 10 March, by the Department of Off-Site Supervision of Bangladesh Bank. According to the circular, selected branches in Dhaka, Ashulia, Tongi, Gazipur, Savar, Bhaluka, Narayanganj, and Chattogram will operate even on official holidays on 18 March (Wednesday) and 19 March (Thursday).
Authorities emphasised that despite the public holidays, branches must maintain adequate security arrangements. In addition, responsible officers and staff should receive their regular salaries along with any applicable holiday allowances, ensuring smooth operations and staff welfare.
Branch Timings During Eid Holidays
| District / Area | Branch Type | Customer Transaction Hours | Office Hours | Prayer Break |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dhaka Metropolitan | Garment-linked | 10:00 – 13:00 | 10:00 – 14:00 | 13:15 – 13:30 |
| Ashulia | Garment-linked | 10:00 – 13:00 | 10:00 – 14:00 | 13:15 – 13:30 |
| Tongi | Garment-linked | 10:00 – 13:00 | 10:00 – 14:00 | 13:15 – 13:30 |
| Gazipur | Garment-linked | 10:00 – 13:00 | 10:00 – 14:00 | 13:15 – 13:30 |
| Savar | Garment-linked | 10:00 – 13:00 | 10:00 – 14:00 | 13:15 – 13:30 |
| Bhaluka | Garment-linked | 10:00 – 13:00 | 10:00 – 14:00 | 13:15 – 13:30 |
| Narayanganj | Garment-linked | 10:00 – 13:00 | 10:00 – 14:00 | 13:15 – 13:30 |
| Chattogram | Garment-linked | 10:00 – 13:00 | 10:00 – 14:00 | 13:15 – 13:30 |
The central bank expects that this arrangement will streamline pre-Eid financial transactions and provide an effective, convenient banking environment for workers, employees, and business operators.
By keeping these branches operational during the holidays, exporters will also be able to conduct bill settlements, foreign currency transactions, and other critical banking activities without interruption. This is particularly vital for sustaining the standard production timelines and ensuring timely payments within the country’s garment sector, which is a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s export economy.
Bangladesh Bank hopes that this proactive measure will minimise disruptions in financial transactions during the festive season, allowing workers to celebrate Eid with dignity and confidence while supporting the sector’s overall productivity and economic stability.