ISLAMABAD: At a time when the lockdown had eased after two months and business activities had picked up sharply with the advent of Eid, the six-day closure of banks was causing serious problems for the business community in terms of cash maintenance.
In a statement issued on Friday, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Muhammad Ahmed Waheed urged the State Bank of Pakistan governor as well as the adviser of PM on finance to order for an inquiry as to why the banks were asked to remain closed for six consecutive days in the country.
Waheed informed that the trend of shopping in the markets was picking ahead of Eid, as billions of rupees were being spent on a daily basis in the markets.
“Under these circumstances, where will the business community keep the cash received from sales?” he asked. “If they keep cash with themselves, there is always a danger of theft and robbery.”
He said keeping the banks closed for six consecutive days in a country already struggling for survival amid Covid-19 was not a wise decision by the government, adding that SBP would be held responsible if any untoward incident happens with traders.
