Directive to keep ATMs stocked with cash during long Eid holidays

The central bank has instructed all scheduled banks in the country to ensure sufficient cash supply in their ATM booths to facilitate smooth financial transactions for customers during the upcoming long Eid-ul-Fitr holidays.

Alongside this, the regulatory body has issued several directives regarding uninterrupted transactions through Point of Sale, e-payment gateway, and Mobile Financial Services.

The instructions were sent by Bangladesh Bank's Payment Systems Department on Monday, March 9. It stated that banks must take necessary preparations in advance to ensure customers do not face any inconvenience during the Eid holidays.

In the circular sent to chief executives of scheduled banks regarding Automated Teller Machine booths, it was stated: round-the-clock ATM services must be ensured; any technical glitches at ATM booths must be resolved quickly; adequate cash supply must be ensured; security including vigilant guards at booths must be ensured.

Regarding Point of Sale, round-the-clock POS service must be ensured and merchants and customers must be made aware to prevent fraud and forgery. For e-payment gateways, two-factor authentication must be maintained for card-based 'Card Not Present' transactions.

All banks providing Mobile Financial Services and their subsidiary companies must ensure uninterrupted transactions.

Additionally, during the Eid holidays, transaction information of any amount must be communicated to customers through SMS alert service; awareness campaigns must be conducted to alert customers regarding all types of electronic payment services; round-the-clock helpline assistance must be provided to customers; and instructions of previously issued circulars in this regard must be properly followed.

Along with previously announced holidays, the cabinet meeting approved the proposal to declare March 18 a holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr. As a result, there will be a seven-day Eid holiday from March 17 to March 23 in all government and private offices this year.