Banking operations at the UCO Bank branch in Shambhuganj, Banka, came to a standstill on Wednesday due to a power outage. With no generator facility available, services like cash withdrawals, deposits, and passbook updates were all affected. Dozens of customers from remote villages had to return disappointed without completing their transactions.

The bank branch serves over 25,000 account holders, with most services reliant on electricity. On Wednesday, prolonged power disruption halted computer and server-based operations. Bank employees remained inside with the grills closed for security reasons, while customers waited for hours outside in the humid and hot weather.

Customers reported that this issue is not new; for about a year, power outages have consistently crippled bank operations, with no permanent solution found. Pensioner Randhir Yadav from Chautra, Vishokhanand Thakur from Jhakhra, and Hiralal Sah from Karsop, among others, expressed their frustration. Female customers also voiced their anger, stating they had been coming to the bank for two consecutive days, leaving crucial agricultural work like paddy transplantation, only to return empty-handed due to lack of service.

Customers highlighted that UCO Bank is the oldest branch in the area, and their accounts have been operated there for years. They plan to lodge complaints with the LDM and District Magistrate. Regional Branch Manager Amarjeet Singh stated around 3:30 PM on Wednesday that generator facilities have been discontinued in all banks for the past six years, replaced by UPS and battery systems. However, prolonged power cuts still disrupt banking services, causing inconvenience to customers.