Written by The Banking Post
Automated banking channels are under heavy pressure as Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, with transactions through ATMs, internet banking and mobile financial services surging sharply across the country.
Officials at Bangladesh Bank said usage of ATMs, online banking and mobile financial services typically rises by more than 50 per cent during the Eid period, driven by higher spending, remittances and salary disbursements.
To manage the spike in demand, the central bank has instructed commercial banks to ensure uninterrupted services and maintain adequate cash in ATM booths throughout the holiday period.
“Banks need to ensure round-the-clock ATM service. If any technical problem occurs, it should be resolved quickly and adequate cash supply must be maintained,” said the central bank spokesperson.
Banks have also been directed to keep Point of Sale (POS), QR code payments, internet banking and online payment gateways fully operational, while strengthening security at ATM booths and raising awareness to prevent fraud.
The regulator further asked banks and their affiliated mobile financial service providers—including bKash, Rocket and Nagad—to ensure smooth and uninterrupted transactions.
On the ground, customer pressure has intensified at ATM booths and MFS points in key areas of the capital, including Rampura, Bailey Road, Dhanmondi, Banani and Elephant Road.
Bankers say ATM usage alone typically rises by 40 to 60 per cent ahead of major festivals like Eid. To cope with the surge, banks are replenishing cash more frequently and strengthening alternative delivery channels.
“We have taken all necessary preparations so that customers do not face difficulties in withdrawing cash during Eid,” said a private bank chief executive.
The increased demand for liquidity has also pushed up interbank borrowing. Turnover in the call money market rose to Tk 574 billion in the last 11 working days up to March 15, from Tk 491 billion in the previous comparable period, central bank data showed.
Industry insiders say digital transactions have been gaining traction in recent years, with festivals like Eid driving a significant spike in usage due to shopping, travel, dining and charitable spending.
Mobile financial service providers are also offering cashback and discount campaigns during Ramadan, further encouraging customers to shift towards digital payments.
The combined effect of festive spending and digital adoption has put banking channels under pressure, even as authorities move to ensure smooth financial transactions during the peak holiday period.
