Saturday, 16th May 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 19th March 2026, 11:47 AM
In observance of the forthcoming Eid-ul-Fitr, selected bank branches across major industrial hubs in Bangladesh will operate on a limited basis on Thursday, 19 March, to facilitate timely payment of wages and allowances to workers in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector. This directive comes under the guidelines issued by Bangladesh Bank, which stipulates that only essential branches will open with a minimal number of staff.
The limited operations will cover key industrial areas including Dhaka, Ashulia, Tongi, Gazipur, Savar, Bhaluka, Narayanganj, and Chattogram. Banking hours are scheduled from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, with customer transactions conducted between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm, allowing a short break for Dhuhr prayers.
The move is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted financial transactions for industrial workers while maintaining operational safety for bank employees. Customers have been advised to avoid visiting banks for non-urgent matters and to complete all essential transactions within the designated hours.
The table below lists the principal banks and the branches that will remain open today:
| Bank Name | Open Branches | Location Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Prime Bank | Agrabad, Narayanganj, Gonokbari, Tongi | Chattogram, Narayanganj, Savar, Gazipur |
| Islami Bank Bangladesh | Agrabad Corporate, Dhaka Head Office Complex, Local Office, Narayanganj | Chattogram, Dhaka, Narayanganj |
| City Bank | Joypurhat, Dinajpur, Gobindaganj, Sirajganj, Syedpur, Rajshahi, Kurigram, Thakurgaon, Pabna, Chapainawabganj, Naogaon, Natore, Bogura, Rangpur | Northern Bangladesh & Rajshahi region |
| BRAC Bank | Motijheel, Tongi, Gonokbari, Joydebpur, CDA Avenue, Rokeya Sarani, Rangpur, Dhanmondi-27, Boro Bazar, Gulshan North Avenue, Jashore, Siddhirganj | Dhaka, Chattogram, Khulna, Jashore, Rangpur |
| Shahjalal Islami Bank | Foreign Exchange Branches | Various locations in Dhaka |
| Premier Bank | Kawran Bazar, Motijheel, Banani, Gulshan, Uttara | Dhaka |
| Mutual Trust Bank | Chandra, Gulshan, Jubilee Road, Narayanganj BSCIC, Principal Branch, Uttara Model Town, Kushtia, Khulna, Jashore, Lohagara | Dhaka and other major cities |
| NCC Bank | OR Nizam Road, Motijheel, Baridhara, Savar, Joydebpur, Bypail | Chattogram & Dhaka |
This limited banking arrangement plays a crucial role in guaranteeing that workers in the garment sector receive their salaries and bonuses in time for Eid celebrations. It also helps maintain routine financial activities in industrial zones without disruption. Bank authorities have requested the public to adhere strictly to the designated hours to ensure smooth operations and the safety of staff and customers alike.
By prioritising worker payments, today’s banking schedule ensures that the RMG workforce can celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr with financial security, while banks efficiently manage their operations under reduced staffing conditions.
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