Banks Ordered Not to Charge for Dam Donations Made Via Debit/Credit Cards

In order to boost up donations for the cause of construction of Diamer Basha and Mohmand Dams, State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has decided to abolish all services charges on payment cards including debit, credit and prepaid for making donations of these dams. According to the statement issued: Accordingly, all issuing and acquiring banks/microfinance banks/payment schemes are advised to meticulously comply with these instructions. Commercial banks have already provided the services of online funds transfer for the dams by using payment cards.  Hundreds of people so far have utilized this service though, especially overseas Pakistanis. However, the fees and charges that are applicable on debit and credit cards, are enormous. These extra transaction charges have been waived off now by the central bank. The contribution made by overseas and residential Pakistanis using credit, debit and prepaid cards has been impressive, despite the extra charges levied on payment cards. Further details regarding this can be viewed here. It is likely that donations through payment cards will increase from overseas and countrywide with the removal of the service charges. Donations using payment cards could be done through this link that has been designed by the central bank to facilitate residential and overseas Pakistanis.