Karachi, March 18, 2025 – The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has firmly dismissed circulating rumors suggesting a shortage of new currency notes, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring a steady supply of cash for the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. In a detailed statement released on Tuesday, the central bank revealed that it has already disbursed Rs27 billion worth of crisp, newly minted banknotes across various denominations to over 17,000 commercial bank branches nationwide.
The SBP underscored its decades-long tradition of issuing fresh currency ahead of major festivals like Eid-ul-Fitr, a time when demand for new notes traditionally spikes as families prepare for gift-giving and celebrations. “There is no truth to claims of a shortage,” the statement read, adding that the central bank has worked closely with commercial banks to leverage their vast networks for seamless public access to the new notes. SBP Dispels Rumors of Currency Shortage
In a bid to enhance convenience, the SBP has also ensured that ATMs across the country will dispense high-quality banknotes throughout the festive period. “We’ve made robust arrangements to keep the cash flow uninterrupted, especially through ATMs, which are a lifeline for many during this busy season,” the bank noted.
To guarantee that the distribution process runs smoothly, the SBP has gone a step further by deploying specialized cash monitoring teams. These teams are conducting on-the-ground inspections at bank branches to verify that the fresh notes are reaching the public as intended. “Our priority is to make this process as efficient and transparent as possible,” the central bank added.
The issuance of Rs27 billion in fresh notes is part of a broader effort to meet the heightened cash demand typical of Eid-ul-Fitr, a time when Pakistanis exchange new banknotes as part of the Eidi tradition. With the festive season fast approaching, the SBP’s proactive measures aim to put an end to speculation and ensure that citizens can celebrate without inconvenience.
