The State Bank of Pakistan has declared that banks across the country will remain closed for three days due to the Ashura holidays. This extended closure is a result of the Ashura holidays coinciding with Sunday.
The central bank issued a notification stating that the banks will be closed from Friday, 28th July to Saturday, 29th July 2023. These dates correspond to the 9th and 10th of Muharram 1445 A.H, which are observed as public holidays on the occasion of Ashura.
This decision follows an official notification from the federal government last week, confirming the observance of public holidays on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, also known as Ashura. The notification specified that Friday, 28th July and Saturday, 29th July will be recognized as public holidays in honor of these significant days in the Islamic calendar.
Youm-e-Ashur, which marks the 10th day of Muharram, will be observed on Saturday, 29th July. This day holds great significance in Islam, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad.
The three-day closure of banks is expected to impact regular banking operations. However, it is also seen as an opportunity for bank employees and customers to observe the solemnity of the Ashura holidays. The State Bank of Pakistan has urged all stakeholders to plan their banking activities accordingly to avoid any inconvenience during this period.
