Bangladesh’s central bank has introduced revised banking hours, curtailing customer transaction times in a bid to support national efforts to conserve fuel and manage energy consumption more effectively.
Under the new directive, customers will be able to conduct banking transactions from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm across all scheduled banks. However, branches will remain open until 5:00 pm for internal and official tasks, including account balancing, interbank settlements, and administrative processing. The announcement was made on Saturday, signalling an immediate shift in daily banking operations.
Previously, banks facilitated customer transactions until 4:00 pm and continued official activities until 6:00 pm. The updated schedule therefore represents a reduction of one hour in both customer service and overall operational time. Authorities believe this measured adjustment will help reduce electricity usage during peak daytime hours, particularly in densely populated commercial districts where energy demand is highest.
The move comes against the backdrop of ongoing energy challenges faced by Bangladesh, including rising fuel costs and supply constraints. As part of a wider strategy, the government has been encouraging institutions to adopt energy-saving practices, and the banking sector—given its extensive infrastructure and reliance on power—has become a key focus of such initiatives.
Financial analysts suggest that while the сокращion in service hours may cause minor disruptions for some customers, the growing reliance on digital banking channels will help offset inconvenience. Mobile banking applications, internet banking platforms, and automated teller machines (ATMs) will continue to operate uninterrupted, enabling customers to carry out essential transactions beyond the revised branch hours.
A summary of the changes is presented below:
| Aspect | Previous Schedule | New Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Customer Transaction Hours | 10:00 am – 4:00 pm | 10:00 am – 3:00 pm |
| Branch Operational Hours | Until 6:00 pm | Until 5:00 pm |
Banking officials have advised customers to adjust their schedules accordingly and to make greater use of digital services where feasible. This shift not only aligns with immediate energy-saving goals but also reflects a gradual transition towards more technology-driven banking practices.
Although no specific end date has been provided, the revised hours are expected to remain in effect until the country’s energy situation improves. The decision highlights the delicate balance policymakers must maintain between sustaining economic activity and addressing infrastructural challenges, as Bangladesh continues to navigate a complex global energy landscape.