From Our Correspondent:
NUSHKI — All commercial banks and financial services across Nushki district have halted operations from August 5 until August 31, 2026, citing security concerns. The unexpected closure has paralyzed local trade and left government workers, pensioners, and students unable to access critical funds.
Residents reported that financial institutions suspended services without prior notice, leaving the district unprepared for a complete financial lockout.Key Community Impacts
Salaries & Pensions Delayed: Government workers and retirees whose payments were deposited directly into accounts cannot withdraw cash.
Trade at a Standstill: Local traders face severe liquidity shortages, leaving check clearing and wire transfers at a standstill.
Utility Payment Delays: Thousands face potential late fees and service cutoffs for QESCO, SSGC, and PTCL utility bills.
Student Deadlines Missed: University and college applicants face missing crucial admission and exam fee deadlines.
Months of Compounding Banking Issues
The total shutdown follows months of constrained financial infrastructure in Nushki. Both National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) and Meezan Bank branches have remained non-operational since January 31, 2026, when armed attackers damaged both facilities.
Prior to the complete closure on August 5, remaining commercial banks in Nushki had capped customer transactions at a maximum of PKR 500,000. With the latest total suspension, formal banking access across Nushki has effectively reached a complete halt.
Residents Demand Security Escorts for Bank Services
Community representatives and trade association leaders are urging local authorities and the State Bank of Pakistan to establish secure, limited-hour banking windows to restore cash flow in the district.
”We urge officials to resume limited banking operations under security protection so basic living and trade can continue,” urged a local trade representative.
Residents have also requested the prioritized restoration of the primary NBP branch, which has been inactive for eight months.
