Staff Correspondent
However, bank branches, sub-branches, and its ATM booths may be kept open subject to authority’s prior approval
Banks will remain closed amid strict lockdown from Wednesday until April 21, aimed to prevent the increasing rate of Covid-19 infections.
All scheduled banks will be closed during the lockdown period, but the officers and employees of the banks should be present at their respective workplaces on time, said the Bangladesh Bank notice issued on Monday.
Additionally, bank branches, sub-branches, and its ATM booths located in the sea, land and airports, as well as customs areas should be opened at all times by consulting with the local administration and customs authorities.
The central bank also asked the lenders to keep adequate cash and internet services at their ATM booths to ensure uninterrupted service to their clients.
The government has issued a gazette notification announcing a set of restrictions to be followed during the nationwide weeklong strict lockdown starting from April 14 to curb the staggering Covid-19 surge.
Bangladesh has been seeing a steep rise in Covid-19 deaths and infections in the last few weeks, with the highest ever single-day death tally recorded in the country on Sunday.
The gazette, signed by Cabinet Division Deputy Secretary Rezaul Islam, was issued on Monday morning, which said prompt stern action will be taken against anyone violating the orders.
Under the fresh lockdown, all government, semi-government, autonomous, private offices and financial institutions will remain closed. But the officers and employees will have to stay in their respective work stations.
However, this rule is not applicable to air, sea, river, land ports and their concerned offices.
