Nepalgunj, February 14

An automated teller machine is an electronic telecommunications device that enables customers to perform financial transactions at any time and without the need for direct interaction with banks, but ATM service is limited in Nepalgunj where ATM machines are operational only during the day.

“ATM machines are expected to be run round-the-clock in case there is emergency, but ATM machines here are hardly operational even for 12 hours, let alone round-the-clock,” said Rajendra Adhikari of Belaspur.

Though a number of banks have opened up ATM counters in the city lately, most of the counters remain open from 7:00am to 8:00pm.

Currently, there are over three dozen banks and financial institutions in operation in Nepalgunj.

“Every bank when it starts its operation has the same slogan that it will provide round-the-clock ATM service, but in reality ATM kiosks close not long after sunset,” said Ganesh Subedi, a local of Bhrikutinagar, accusing the banks of cheating customers.

Bank officials, however, have their own story to tell as most of them have cited lack of security to run ATMs 24 hours. “Our ATMs used to remain open 24 hours a day before the Tharuhat and Madhes agitation, but we had to discontinue the service after that due to lack of security,” said Civil Bank Nepalgunj Branch Manager Bijaya KC. “We’re ready to open ATM kiosks even at night if the administration and the police are ready to ensure security,” he added.

On his part, Banke District Police Office Chief SP Arun Poudel said the police administration was ready to provide security for ATM counters if required.

“Our job is to maintain peace and security, there is no reason why we would not provide security as long as the banks are also ready to put in place a security mechanism of their own such as CC cameras,” he said.