Bank in Odisha running under polythene sheet!

Employees of the Bonai cooperative bank in Odisha’s Sundargarh district are reportedly working under life-threatening conditions. Complaints surfaced on Thursday regarding a dangerously dilapidated building with falling plaster, exposed wiring, and the absence of basic safety measures, sparking concern among staff and customers alike.

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According to sources, in a deeply troubling revelation, employees of the bank in Bonai are operating under perilous conditions, raising questions about the workplace safety in rural banking institutions. Allegedly, the bank’s building is in a state of extreme disrepair.

The plaster on interior walls is crumbling and falling off in several places.

Bank employees are reportedly working beneath polythene sheets as a temporary shield against leaks and debris. The ceiling fans, some barely hanging on, pose a serious risk of falling without warning.

Adding to the dangers, the electrical setup inside the bank is described as ‘hazardous’. Loose wires dangle precariously, and the possibility of a short circuit looms large. Both customers and staff have expressed dissatisfaction over the unsafe environment.

Despite repeated grievances, the conditions have yet to improve. However, the chairman of the cooperative society has responded to the situation, stating that funds have been sanctioned and repair work will begin soon.

“The building was constructed only 15 years ago and is not a very old structure. It was constructed as per the then available provisions. We had made a budgetary provision of Rs 1 crore for this during the FY 2023-24,” Jajpur District Cooperative Society (DCS) president, Pradyumna Tripathy, said to OTV when contacted.

“As per the OCS Act (Orissa Co-operative Societies Act, 1962), we need to obtain the prior approval of the RCS (Registrar of Cooperative Society) before taking up any work (including construction and repair). A proposal sent for approval is awaited. The repair work will be carried out after approval comes in,” DCS) president Tripathy stated.