New Delhi: Customers of several public sector banks will be able to withdraw cash from ATMs beyond their usual monthly free transaction limit without paying additional charges during the three day bank strike from September 28 to 30.
State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda, Union Bank of India and Indian Bank are among the lenders offering temporary relief to customers. The waiver is aimed at ensuring continued access to cash while branch operations are affected by the strike.
The temporary arrangement will cover ATM transactions, including withdrawals made from machines operated by other banks. Customers will not be charged for exceeding their regular monthly free ATM withdrawal limit during the strike period.
Under normal rules, customers are generally allowed five free ATM transactions each month at their own bank’s ATMs. At other banks’ ATMs, the limit is three transactions in major metropolitan centres and five in other locations. Charges can apply once these limits are exceeded.
The three day strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions, with employees seeking a five day banking week among other demands. The action is expected to affect public sector banks and regional rural banks and comes at a significant time for the banking sector because of the half yearly account closing period.
To reduce inconvenience, public sector banks have been directed to keep branches open on Sunday, September 27, giving customers an additional opportunity to complete essential transactions before the strike begins.
Banks have also encouraged customers to use digital services, mobile banking and internet banking wherever possible. SBI has advised customers to rely on ATMs, YONO and other digital channels during the disruption.
Several newer private sector banks, including ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank and IndusInd Bank, are expected to maintain normal operations during the strike period.
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