Four state-run banks to remain open today
The Bangladesh Bank has directed four state-owned banks to remain open today, even as the country begins a nine-day Eid-ul-Fitr holiday.
In a circular issued yesterday, the central bank informed the managing directors and chief executives of Sonali Bank, Janata Bank, Agrani Bank, and Rupali Bank about the decision.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. The circular said that the banks would remain open to ensure that MPO-enlisted (monthly pay order) teachers and staff at non-government educational institutions under the Department of Secondary and Higher Education could withdraw their salaries and allowances before the Eid.
The banks will operate from 10 am to 3 pm, with transactions allowed between 10 am and 12 pm.
A break for Jumu'atul Wida (the last Friday in Ramadan before Eid) prayers will be observed from 1 pm to 2 pm, according to the directive.
"This decision has been made in the public interest," the circular added.
The central bank said that officials and employees on duty during this period would receive allowances as per regulations.
Meanwhile, commercial banks and non-bank financial institutions will remain closed for nine consecutive days during Eid-ul-Fitr this year, from March 28 to April 5.
According to the circular, all branches and sub-branches of scheduled banks will remain closed on April 3, following a government-declared holiday for Eid.
The central bank also instructed authorities to ensure proper security at branches that will remain open and to compensate officers and employees working on holidays as per the rules.
The Ministry of Public Administration has officially declared April 3 a public holiday for Eid. Finance companies, like government institutions, will also be closed on that day.
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