DARINGBADI, Kandhamal: A severe shortage of cash at the Budaguda branch of Odisha Grameen Bank in Daringbadi block of Kandhamal district has left hundreds of customers struggling to withdraw money from their accounts. Although the branch remains open, customers allege that they are unable to withdraw the required amounts because of inadequate cash availability, causing hardship during the festive season.
People visiting the bank to meet urgent medical expenses, purchase medicines, pay educational costs and manage daily household needs have reportedly been returning empty-handed. Long queues have formed outside the branch, with frustration mounting among customers who wait for hours only to be told that cash is unavailable. The situation has particularly affected elderly people, women, persons with disabilities and beneficiaries who depend on government assistance for their daily needs.
The Budaguda branch serves thousands of people from remote and hilly areas in and around Daringbadi. Many beneficiaries travel 10 to 20 km, often spending money on transport, to withdraw old-age pensions, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi funds and other government benefits. The cash shortage has forced them to waste both time and money, adding to the difficulties faced by economically weaker households.
Contacted over the issue, branch manager Bhavatosh Chhotray said the shortage had arisen because of consecutive government holidays. He described the situation as temporary and assured customers that cash withdrawals would resume once fresh cash supplies arrived or sufficient funds became available at the branch. He expressed confidence that normal services would be restored soon.
The continuing shortage has raised concerns among local residents, particularly as people depend on their savings and government assistance for essential expenditure. Residents and local intellectuals have urged senior officials of Odisha Grameen Bank and the district administration to intervene promptly, ensure an adequate supply of cash and prevent customers from facing similar difficulties in the future.
