Himalayan Bank Moves Batisputali Branch Locker Services to Kamaladi Head Office
15th September 2025, Kathmandu
Himalayan Bank has swiftly and responsibly responded to the recent civil unrest in Nepal by relocating its locker services from its Batisputali branch to a more secure and central location.
HBL Moves Locker Services
The Batisputali branch sustained significant damage on September 9, 2025 (Bhadra 24, 2082), due to vandalism and arson during the widespread Gen Z protests. This move is a testament to the bank’s commitment to prioritizing the safety of its customers’ valuables and ensuring business continuity even in the face of unexpected and serious disruptions. By taking proactive measures, Himalayan Bank has provided a crucial assurance to its clientele, reinforcing trust in the nation’s financial system at a time when public confidence is most needed.
Relocation and Operational Continuity
The bank’s decision to transfer its locker services was an essential step for security reasons. All customers who previously had a locker at the Batisputali branch must now go to the Kamaladi head office to access their valuables. This single, centralized location simplifies the process for customers and enhances the security protocol for the bank. It ensures that the assets are housed in a robust and well-protected facility, minimizing any risk of further damage or theft. The bank has officially assured its customers that their valuables were moved with the utmost care and security.
In a comprehensive effort to maintain seamless operations, Himalayan Bank has also made alternate arrangements for other critical services. For regular day-to-day banking transactions, customers from the Batisputali area are now being served by nearby branches. This strategic dispersal of services ensures that the destruction of one branch does not cripple the ability of customers to conduct their essential financial activities like deposits, withdrawals, and account inquiries. Furthermore, all loan-related activities previously handled by the Batisputali branch have been successfully transferred to the Hiti Durbar branch in Durbar Marg. This is a crucial step for both individual and business clients who rely on uninterrupted loan services for their financial planning and operations. The bank’s ability to reroute these services so quickly highlights its robust operational framework and its dedication to minimizing inconvenience for its clients.
The Banking Sector in the Wake of Protests
The events at Himalayan Bank’s Batisputali branch are part of a larger narrative of the impact of the Gen Z protests on Nepal’s banking and financial sector. News reports and social media accounts have indicated that several banks and financial institutions were targets of vandalism and arson. This widespread damage has forced a number of banks to close or relocate branches, temporarily disrupting services in affected areas. The protests, which were primarily driven by a youthful anti-corruption movement, escalated in some areas, leading to property damage and a general sense of unease.
In response, the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), the nation’s central bank, and other financial institutions have been working diligently to restore normalcy. The banking sector’s response has been marked by a strong emphasis on maintaining operational stability. Many banks have relied on their digital banking services, including mobile and internet banking, to ensure that customers can continue to conduct transactions remotely. This reliance on digital infrastructure has proven to be a lifeline during the recent disruptions, showcasing the growing importance of technology in Nepal’s financial system.
The resilience of the banking sector is a key factor in a country’s ability to navigate political and social crises. The quick and decisive actions of banks like Himalayan Bank in protecting their assets and ensuring service continuity help to reassure the public that their savings and investments are secure. This confidence is vital for preventing a mass exodus from the banking system and for maintaining economic stability.
Customer Guidance and Future Outlook
For customers affected by the Batisputali branch relocation, it is essential to stay informed about the changes. The bank has provided clear instructions for accessing lockers at the Kamaladi head office and for conducting loan-related activities at the Hiti Durbar branch. Customers are advised to visit the bank’s official website or contact their customer service hotline for any additional information or specific guidance. The bank’s ability to swiftly adapt its operations and its commitment to transparency during this time further strengthens its reputation as a reliable and customer-centric financial institution.
As the country moves toward a period of greater political stability and the government works to address the issues raised by the Gen Z movement, the banking sector will play a crucial role in supporting economic recovery. The lessons learned from this period, particularly the importance of a robust digital infrastructure and comprehensive crisis management plans, will likely shape the future of banking in Nepal. Himalayan Bank’s proactive response stands as a positive example of how financial institutions can and must navigate turbulent times while upholding their fundamental responsibility to their customers.
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