Banking transactions in all branches are going to begin in a limited scale with full security on Wednesday from 11 am to 3 pm and will continue as same on Thursday, Bangladesh Bank said in a notice on Tuesday.
Speaking with The Business Post, the acting Spokesperson and Executive Director of Bangladesh Bank Saiful Islam said, “Banks will be opened from 11 am to 3 pm with full security. However, transactions will occur in a limited scale.”
Banking transactions on last Sunday, Monday and Tuesday were halted due to the ongoing curfew and general holiday declared by the government. Internet across the country was also suspended along with 4G mobile internet services, causing extreme sufferings to the customers.
Although ATM booths were open, services were not smooth in many areas due to internet shutdown and money shortages.
Bankers demanded to restore the internet services as soon as possible or to provide an alternative system facilitated by Bangladesh Bank.
Monir Hossain, an importer told The Business Post that he could not get the customs clearance from Chattogram Port as there were no banking transactions.
“Although NBR instructed customs officials to carry out manual clearance, I could not pay the customs fees due to the suspension of banking transaction. It is impossible for me to go to Chattogram with cash money and now my consignments are stuck at the port,” he said.
Jamuna Bank Managing Director Elias Hossain told The Business Post, “The main challenge we are facing is transferring the funds. All types of transactions are suspended. I hope the situation will improve soon.”
“If the internet services are not restored completely then alternative solutions must be provided facilitated by Bangladesh Bank,” he added.
