Bangladesh Bank Issues Eid Directives to Ensure Seamless Digital Transactions

Ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr, Bangladesh Bank has issued special directives to all scheduled banks and Mobile Financial Service (MFS) providers in the country to ensure uninterrupted financial transactions for customers. Although banks will remain closed during the Eid holidays, the central bank has taken this advance step to ensure that customers can conveniently make purchases and withdraw cash through digital and electronic channels.

According to a circular issued on Monday, 9 March, by the Payment Systems Department of Bangladesh Bank, banks have been instructed to maintain adequate cash in ATM booths and ensure that digital payment gateways and Point of Sale (POS) services remain operational. The central bank has taken this initiative to ensure that the financial transactions of the general public are not disrupted in any way during the festive period.

The circular clearly states that ATM booths must remain operational at all times, and any technical issues that arise must be resolved promptly. It also instructs banks to keep security guards on alert to ensure the safety of the booths. In addition, banks have been requested to maintain uninterrupted POS services and place emphasis on raising awareness among merchants and customers to prevent fraud. For e-payment gateways, institutions have been required to keep the ‘two-factor authentication’ system active to strengthen security.

The central bank has also directed Mobile Financial Service providers such as bKash, Rocket, and Nagad to ensure maximum vigilance and uninterrupted services in transaction operations. The directives further mention that customers must be immediately notified via SMS about transactions of any amount.

DBTech/SMEH/MUM/OR