SHANGLA: People here on Friday complained that most of the automated teller machines (ATMs) in the district had been nonfunctional for over a week. They said that almost all the local banks had pasted a written notice `ATM machine is out of service` causing difHcultiesforthe residents.
Because of this situation ahead of Eidul Fitr long queues of people could be seen in front of every bank to withdraw cash. `I have come from Sakargah to withdraw cash for making preparation for Eidul Fitr, but can`t find an ATM machine that is working,` said Saleem Khan from Allai tehsil in Battagram district.
He claimed all the eight banks at Bisham had closed the ATM machines.
Another person, standing in a queue at Bisham outside a bank, said the he had come from Maira remote area to withdraw cash, but no ATM was operational here. The people have demanded of the State Bank of Pakistan to order the banks to ensure their ATMs were operational round the clock.
12 BOOKED: The Puran administration on Friday booked 12 shopkeepers and demolished several kiosks and illegal structures during an anti-encroachment drive in Aloch Bazaar.
Assistant commissioner, Puran, supervised the drive. The team removed illegal vehicle stands, roadside kiosl(s and other structures at Puran. During the drive 12 shopl(eepers were booked and sent to lockup.
Meanwhile, deputy commissioner, Shangla, here on Friday imposed Section 144 and banned public gatherings at public places and on roads for one month to avoid road blockades in the district.
