MLA calls for ATM machines, bank branches

SHILLONG: Mawsynram legislator HM Shangpliang has written to the HDFC Bank Ltd requesting to open bank branches and install ATM machines.
In a letter to the bank’s Kolkata-based Regional Head, Shangpliang explained that UCO is the only bank catering to the needs and requirements of the people and said that there are more than 40 villages around Dangar that are dependent on it alone since most of the villagers are engaged in selling betel nuts and broomsticks to Assam and other adjoining states.
“During this COVID-19 pandemic, there is constant need for the people to withdraw money from the bank and it is disheartening to note that people start queuing up in front of the UCO Bank at 3 am in the morning. While at times, the people have to return to their villages without money due to shortage of money in the bank,” he said.
He also pointed to the International Border Haat in Dangar, which operates once a week and is economically very active with the export goods like betel nuts, betel leaf, fruits, cosmetics, footwear, etc from India and import of plasticware and furniture from across the border.
Shangpliang said that there is an urgent need of setting up of a bank and ATM machine in Dangar since people need money for their business transactions.