A picture of long queues crowding the area in front of BOV’s Qormi branch went viral for all the wrong reasons yesterday and now the bank is announcing new restrictive measures to safeguard clients and workers.

BOV announced that: “Following recent developments related to COVID-19, Bank of Valletta is announcing that with effect from Tuesday 24th March, it will be introducing further measures aimed at reducing face-to-face contact,” read a Facebook statement.

These measures include the temporary closing of eight branches/agencies in Bormla, Fgura, Fleur De Lys, Marsaxlokk, Imsida, Ħal Qormi, Skyparks and Xewkija Gozo as well as a reduction in branch opening hours. BOV banks will now be open from 9am to 12pm Monday to Saturday. ATMs will continue to operate normally.

BOV apologized for the inconvenience: “We understand that these measures may cause some inconvenience. However, in view of the seriousness of the current pandemic, we strongly believe that these measures are necessary for the well-being of the whole community.”

To find out about all the measures being implemented, click here.