On Saturday, 14 February 2026, several bank branches across Bangladesh remained operational on a limited basis to ensure uninterrupted national fuel distribution. This measure allows petrol pumps and fuel dealers to procure essential petroleum products without disruption. The initiative was confirmed by Bangladesh Bank authorities.
The move came following a request from Syed Sajjadul Karim Kabul, convener of the Bangladesh Petroleum Dealers, Distributors, Agents and Petrol Pump Owners Association, to facilitate fuel purchases despite banking closures. In response, the Supervisory Data Management and Analytics Department (SDMAD) of Bangladesh Bank granted special authorisation for selected branches to operate even during the holiday period.
Earlier in the week, all scheduled banks were closed on 11 and 12 February due to the 13th National Parliament Election and associated public voting. Subsequently, 13 and 14 February coincided with the weekly weekend holidays, resulting in a four-day suspension of normal banking operations. This exceptional arrangement ensured that the process of fuel procurement continued smoothly, mitigating potential supply disruptions.
The list of bank branches open on 14 February is as follows:
| Bank Name | Branch Locations |
|---|---|
| Pubali Bank PLC | Khulna Khalishpur, Narayanganj Fatulla, Dinajpur Parbatipur, Rangpur Shapla Chattar, Chattogram Agrabad, Chandpur Main Branch, Jhalokathi Jhalokathi, Barishal Barishal, Kishoreganj Bhairab Bazar, Sylhet Boroi Kandi |
| Uttara Bank PLC | Khulna Khalishpur |
| Janata Bank PLC | Sirajganj Baghabari Ghat |
| Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC | Sirajganj Baghabari Ghat |
| One Bank PLC | Dinajpur Parbatipur Sub-Branch |
Officials from Bangladesh Bank emphasised that this limited opening is exclusively intended for fuel supply purposes and is not applicable to general customers. Dealers and petrol pump owners are required to adhere strictly to the designated operating hours to procure fuel, ensuring no disruption to the supply chain.
Moreover, this measure reflects a broader strategy to maintain continuity in critical supply chains and national financial operations, even on holidays. By keeping selected bank branches operational, the authorities aim to make the fuel supply chain more efficient, transparent, and well-regulated.
This proactive approach highlights the coordination between banking authorities and the petroleum sector, ensuring that essential energy resources remain accessible to support the country’s economic activities.