The government is likely to approve a proposal to declare March 18 a public holiday at Thursday’s cabinet meeting, potentially allowing government employees to enjoy a seven-day break during Eid al-Fitr.
If March 18 is declared a holiday by executive order, public officials and employees will receive a continuous seven-day vacation surrounding Eid-ul-Fitr.
Current Holiday Schedule
The government has already scheduled March 21 as the general holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr, assuming Ramadan lasts 30 days this year. In addition, March 19 and 20, as well as March 22 and 23, have been declared holidays by executive order before and after Eid.
Before the Eid break officially begins, March 17 (Tuesday) is a public holiday for Shab-e-Qadr. Offices are currently scheduled to remain open on March 18 (Wednesday). However, the Ministry of Public Administration has proposed declaring that day a holiday as well. If approved, it would create a continuous seven-day vacation for government staff.
Possibility of 12-Day Leave
Furthermore, if employees manage to take leave on March 24 and 25 following Eid, they could enjoy a 12-day holiday stretch. This is because March 26 (Thursday) is a public holiday for Independence Day, followed by the regular weekend on March 27 and 28 (Friday and Saturday).
Call for Holiday to Ease Travel
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Jatri Kalyan Samity has called for declaring March 18 a public holiday to ensure smooth Eid travel. In a statement sent to the media on Wednesday, the passenger welfare organization emphasized that an additional holiday would help reduce congestion and make the Eid journey safer and more comfortable.
A final decision is expected following the cabinet meeting.
