Insufficient cash, closures reported at ATMs in Karachi

KARACHI: The automated teller machines (ATMs) of several commercial banks stopping working on Friday causing immense inconvenience to citizens just a day ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, ARY News reported.

The ATMs of several banks faced a shortage of cash while the network was not operational at several banks. Citizens face immense trouble in withdrawing cash in preparation for the festive occasion of Eid-Al-Adha.

Long queues were witnessed at those ATMs which were operational. Many citizens express concern at the inconvenience caused and demanded the State Bank of Pakistan take action against the bank who ATMs were not properly functioning and had cash shortages.

State Bank on Thursday had issued fresh banknotes of Rs. 168 billion on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha to facilitate the general public.

This includes banknotes of the lower denomination (up to Rs.100) of Rs. 8 billion and higher denomination banknotes (Rs.500 and above) of Rs. 160 billion, which was meant for heavy payments and ATM needs of commercial banks.

Banks were also issued lower denomination fresh bank notes worth Rs. 7 billion to disburse to the public and account holders.