Neravy residents seek additional ATM to ease cash access issues

Residents of Neravy Commune in Karaikal district have raised concern over limited access to banks and have urged the authorities to install an additional ATM to address frequent cash shortages

Residents of Neravy Commune in Karaikal district have raised concern over limited access to banks and have urged the authorities to install an additional ATM to address frequent cash shortages.

The rural commune, comprising the villages of Neravy (North and South), Keezhamanai, and Vizhidiyur, has a population of about 10,000. Locals rely on a single branch and ATM of the Indian Bank, both of which, residents say, frequently run out of cash, especially on weekends and during festival seasons.

“The bank and the ATM are our only options here, but most of the time there is no cash. We have to travel outside the commune, which wastes time and money. Another ATM inside would make life easier,” said M.A. Nissar, organiser of the Neravy–Thiruppatinam Struggle Committee.

Bank officials said the Neravy branch sees high footfall because of government scheme disbursals and loan processing and efforts were under way to ensure steady cash flow and better service.

The nearest alternative ATM is located 2 to 3 km away, near the ONGC office on the Nagapattinam–Karaikal road. Residents say the distance and lack of frequent bus services make access difficult for the elderly and those without personal transport.

A senior district official said the administration is aware of the demand and is in talks with banks to set up an ATM, with a mobile unit under consideration.