Please refer to BSD Circular No.11 dated March 17, 2001 enclosing therewith the revised Branching Licensing Policy. 

2.         In respect of the Branch Licensing Policy, it is clarified that :- 

i)          While submitting the Annual Branch Expansion Plan (ABEP) before commencement of each calendar year (i.e. January-December) the banks may also submit their annual plan for installation of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) during the said year.  Banks only need to give prior intimation to the State Bank before installation of any ATM. 

ii)         In case any ABEP of a bank is not approved, the State Bank will      invariably intimate the same in writing to the bank within 30 days from the date of submission of duly completed  ABEP to SBP.  

iii)         Evidence regarding provision of adequate security arrangements and observance of town planning regulations will not be a pre-condition for approval of ABEP and will only be required at the time of seeking formal license from State Bank.

3.         It is also clarified that CAMEL rating shall be the eligibility criteria for approval or otherwise of the Annual Branch Expansion Plan.  However, other factors mentioned in para-3 of Branch Licensing Policy shall be added considerations in the matter.

4.         Other instructions on the subject shall, however, remain unchanged.

5.         Please acknowledge receipt.