To ensure uninterrupted financial transactions during the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha holidays, Bangladesh Bank has instructed all scheduled banks in the country to keep sufficient cash stocked in their ATM booths.
These directives were issued in a circular sent on Thursday by the Payment Systems Department of Bangladesh Bank to senior executives of scheduled banks.
In addition to ATM operations, the central bank issued a set of guidelines to ensure smooth transactions via Point of Sale (POS), e-payment gateways, and mobile financial services (MFS).
To avoid inconvenience to customers during the Eid holidays, banks have been advised to make all necessary preparations in advance.
The circular also said that ATM booths must remain operational round the clock, any technical issues must be resolved promptly, adequate cash supply must be ensured, and 24-hour security measures, including security personnel, must be maintained.
For POS services, the banks have been instructed to ensure 24/7 operation and to raise awareness among merchants and customers to prevent fraud.
Regarding e-payment gateways, the central bank directed the continued use of two-factor authentication for card-based transactions that do not require human interaction (i.e., “card non-human touch” systems).
Additionally, all banks and their MFS partners must ensure seamless transaction processing.
The directive also said that customers must receive SMS alerts for every transaction, regardless of the amount, during the Eid holidays.
Furthermore, Bangladesh Bank has called for public awareness campaigns to educate users about electronic payment safety.
Banks have also been instructed to maintain a 24-hour customer helpline and strictly follow all issued guidelines.