Festive spirit is to provide a longer holiday for bank staff and customers in Punjab this October. The month will see an unusual sequence of consecutive bank holidays, planned right at the center of the Diwali festivities.
As per the official holiday schedule, Punjab banks will be closed from October 20 to 22 inclusive of Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. This three-day closure falls within the Diwali celebrations and hence is a mid-weeklong break for banking operations.
Also the 19th is a holiday due to Sunday. This counts as 4 holidays collectively to enjoy the festive atmosphere with family and friends.
The holiday chain results in branches closing their shutters throughout the state, as families prepare for Diwali puja, lights, and festivities. While this festive bunch is a treat for those in the banking industry, customers are asked to make arrangements in advance.
ATMs, internet banking services, and online funds transfers should be available during this time but, for cheque clearing services, cash deposits, or personal support, customers will have to make prior arrangements before the extended festive holiday season starts.
Interestingly, the timing has also sparked a debate among most individuals regarding the potential of a longer holiday period. As the three consecutive holidays occur on weekdays, those who opt to tag them along with the next weekend could find themselves having an even longer holiday.
For the banking employees, this festive season is not merely a time of lights and festivities, it is also a mid-week respite that is hard to come by. For the people, on the other hand, the festive mood comes with an added reminder: do your banking work in advance to prevent last-minute jostling.