Banks open to customers only till 2pm from today

Banks open to customers only till 2pm from today

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Ahmedabad:21,04.2021

Do you have some work at the bank? Then, make sure you are there early because banks will observe shorter working hours from Wednesday.

According to a circular issued by the state finance department, business hours for customers have been fixed from 10am to 2pm. The decision was taken a day after the Maha Gujarat Bank Employees’ Association (MGBEA) made a representation in this regard before the chief minister The restricted banking hours and services, along with other measures proposed by the department, will continue till April 30.

With a view to containing Covid-l9 cases in Gujarat, heads of major public and private sector banks, the regional director of RBI, Ahmedabad, and convener, SLBC, Gujarat held a meeting to assess and chart a course of action to be taken regarding banking activities.

During this period, bank branches and its offices shall provide only essential services to customers including cash deposit, cash withdrawals, RTGS and remittances including clearance. Special preference shall also be extended to senior citizens for availing banking services.

“Staff strength in branches/administrative offices shall be curtailed by 50% by adopting alternate days working/work from home etc to minimize the risk of Covid spread,” states the circular.

The department has also asked banks to ensure adequate cash in ATMs and encourage the customers to use digital payment modes.

“Guidelines relating to Covid-19 pandemic issued by the Centre, the state government and all other local competent authorities shall also be strictly adhered to, and Covid-appropriate behaviour must be strictly observed by all concerned,” the circular further added.