Public in conundrum as banks shut, ATMs cashless
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, May 10 2021:
Taking into consideration of the seriousness of the second wave of Covid-19 pandemic, the state government had imposed curfew in seven districts of the state as measures to curb the spread of the contagion.
However, the curfew also means that normal transaction activities of banks have been curbed and as such, many have closed down for the time being.
Due to the closure, ATMs have run out of money leaving the people, who are already reeling under the pandemic, under great stress.
The closure has also heavily affected the economy of the state as it is almost impossible to bring in daily essential items to the state.
Speaking to The People's Chronicle in this regard, a wholesale dealer said that items are purchased from other states through online transaction.
After a business house has made the necessary payment, it needs to deposit additional money to place a new order.
However, ever since the banks have closed, no deposits can be made and this in turn is preventing them from bringing in daily essential items to the state.
This could likely lead to shortage of necessary items within the next few days.
Meanwhile, a medical equipment dealer conveyed to this daily that transportation of important medical equipment into the state has also taken a hit as all transactions are done online.
However, they are unable to deposit any money into their bank accounts as the banks have been staying shut.
A retail outlet also voiced his difficulties, informing that one has to deposit some amount in advance to IOCL for procuring fuel.
However, due to the closure of banks, most of the retail outlets are now in default.
IOCL had extended the deadline for 5 days which came and passed by; leaving the oil pumps in default again and making them pay penalties for the same.
However, the most affected by the closure of banks and non-availability of cash in ATMs is the common man.
ATMs running of cash mean that they are unable to buy even medicines.
Although the government has been encouraging e-transaction, many shops in the state including medical stores do not have the facility.
As such, many people have conveyed that it would be in the interest of the people to reopen banks and utilise necessary staff for transaction purposes but in limited numbers as part of precautionary measures against containing the virus.
They also urged for ensuring the ATMs are refilled regularly.