Customers distressed as SBI ATM in Shehara runs out of cash during Diwali

According to a report by Sandesh, customers faced significant hardship in Shehara town during the Diwali festival as cash was unavailable in the State Bank of India (SBI) ATM. 'No Cash' boards had been placed at this ATM located on the Lunavada Highway, causing people who came to withdraw cash to return disappointed.

Farmers, labourers, pensioners, the working class, and widows, who had travelled at great expense from villages located 10 to 15 kilometres away for festival shopping, faced difficulties. Customers needed money to purchase children's clothes, sweets, groceries, and medicines, but their preparations were ruined due to the unavailability of cash.

Some customers withdrew money by using ATMs of other banks and paying additional charges, while some managed their work by taking loans. Local customers alleged that despite being aware of the festivals, no arrangements were made to maintain sufficient cash. As ATMs are a primary support for common and middle-class people, there has been a strong demand that arrangements for regular cash replenishment be made during festivals.