The government of Bangladesh has declared March 18 as a public holiday by executive order ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, with the regular Eid holidays beginning on March 19. Despite the general closure of banks during this period, the central bank has issued special instructions to keep certain branches open to facilitate salary, bonus, and allowance payments for garment workers and officials, as well as export bill settlements.

According to Bangladesh Bank’s directive issued on March 10 by its Department of Off-site Supervision, branches of scheduled banks located in garment industry areas will remain open on March 18 and 19 in a limited capacity. These include branches in Dhaka, Ashulia, Tongi, Gazipur, Savar, Valuka, Narayanganj, and Chattogram. Transactions will be conducted from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with offices operating until 2 p.m., including a short break for prayers.

Banks have also been instructed to provide allowances to employees working during the holidays in accordance with regulations, while ensuring adequate security at all open branches.