PNB says no “cash shortage” in its ATMs

State-run Punjab National Bank (PNB) on Wednesday said there is no "cash shortage in its ATMs across the country.

"Overall, Punjab National Bank has not faced any cash shortage in its ATMs across the country and continue to function as usual," the state-run lender said in a statement. "Out of 9,679 PNB ATMs, there is a 90 per cent availability of ATMs which is normal."

On Tuesday, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley sought to allay fears amidst reports of a cash crunch and empty ATMs in the country by stating that "there is more than adequate currency in circulation", even as the government blamed "unusual demand" for shortages in some areas.

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Besides, the central government announced that it has decided to increase printing of Rs 500 notes by five times. In addition, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said that it is "taking steps to move currency to areas" which have witnessed unusually large cash withdrawals.

"The shortage may be felt in some pockets largely due to logistical issues of replenishing ATMs frequently and the recalibration of ATMs being still underway. RBI is closely monitoring both these aspects," the RBI had said in a statement on Tuesday. "Further, as a matter of abundant precaution, RBI is also taking steps to move currency to areas which are witnessing unusually large cash withdrawals." IANS