Farhan Qureshi 
The federal government has officially declared June 25 and June 26 as Ashura holidays Pakistan, marking the 9th and 10th of Muharram 1448 AH with nationwide public holidays.
During the two-day holiday period, government offices, private offices, educational institutions, and banks across Pakistan will suspend normal operations. The announcement allows citizens to observe religious events while enabling provincial administrations to implement security and traffic arrangements for Ashura processions and majalis.
Banks to Remain Closed for Two Days
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and commercial banks will remain closed for public dealing on both June 25 and June 26. Customers visiting physical branches for cash deposits, account services, cheque submissions, or other banking matters will need to wait until normal operations resume.
Despite branch closures, digital banking channels will continue functioning throughout the holiday period.
ATMs and Online Banking Will Continue Working
Bank customers will still be able to access funds and conduct transactions using ATMs, mobile banking applications, and internet banking platforms.
Digital transfers, bill payments, mobile top-ups, and account management services are expected to remain available 24 hours a day.
However, customers should be aware that certain banking transactions may not be finalized immediately during the holiday period.
Cheque Clearing and Interbank Transfers May Face Delays
While electronic banking services remain active, cheque clearing and some interbank settlements may be processed on the next working day.
Transactions initiated during the June 25-26 holiday period could experience delays and may only be fully settled once banks reopen on Monday, June 29. Individuals and businesses planning large payments are advised to complete urgent transactions before the holiday window begins.
Pakistan Stock Exchange to Suspend Trading
The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) will also observe the Ashura holidays. Trading activities will remain suspended on both June 25 and June 26, with normal market operations expected to resume on the next official working day.
Investors and traders should take the holiday schedule into account when planning transactions and portfolio adjustments.
Which Services Will Remain Open?
Although many public-facing institutions will close, essential services will continue operating.
Hospitals, emergency services, medical stores, electricity providers, gas utilities, water services, and media organizations are expected to remain operational throughout the holidays.
These services are considered critical and will continue serving the public despite the nationwide closure of most offices.
Traffic Restrictions Expected in Major Cities
Local administrations are expected to implement special security measures around Muharram processions and majalis.
Road closures, diversions, and traffic route changes are likely in several cities. In Karachi, major procession routes, including M.A. Jinnah Road, may face temporary closures during key events.
Authorities may also impose restrictions on pillion riding in selected districts as part of security arrangements.
Citizens planning to travel during Ashura are advised to monitor local traffic advisories and allow extra time for their journeys.
Two-Day Holiday to Impact Regular Operations
With June 25 and June 26 officially declared public holidays, most educational institutions, government departments, private offices, banks, and financial markets will remain closed across Pakistan.
While essential services and digital banking platforms will continue functioning, residents should expect reduced business activity, temporary traffic restrictions, and delays in certain financial transactions until regular operations resume after the Ashura holidays.
