The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Monday urged commercial banks to offer extended working hours starting May 29, in response to a request from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). This initiative is aimed at easing tax payments for citizens. The directives specifically require all bank branches except Saturday-opening ones and their respective FBR counterparts on both days to remain open until 5:30 PM, with an additional day dedicated solely for Special Clearance transactions.
Kartarpur Corridor Context: In parallel efforts, the Sikh community is advocating a similar approach towards their historical pilgrimage site at Kartarpur Sahib. They seek to establish and maintain open-access corridors year-round for visits by devotees from India.
In addition to tax measures, on May 29th – International Day of Prayer for Peace – Pakistan plans special programs promoting interfaith harmony. Furthermore, the announcement highlighted a significant donation made toward health services in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province.