Rupali Bank yesterday brought all 563 of its branches under a common network -- the first among the state-owned banks to do so.

“From now, Rupali's clients will be able to enjoy real-time banking facility,” said Md Ataur Rahman Prodhan, managing director of Rupali Bank, at an event held at its headquarters to announce the launch of full automation.

The bank's Baherchar branch is located in the most remote area of Patuakhali and has no electricity connection.

“But the branch too was brought under the real-time banking umbrella,” he said, adding that the branch runs with solar panels.

The bank started the automation process in December 2014 and wrapped it up this month, according to a press release.  With automation, comes the risk of cyber crime, Prodhan said, adding that the bank will now focus on cybersecurity.

Full automation will bring more transparency in banking activities, said Monzur Hossain, chairman of Rupali Bank. “The bank needs a robust security system to fight hackers. That's why we will have to increase monitoring and skilled manpower.”