Coronavirus: Indian Banks' Association appeals people to wash hands after touching currency

In the wake of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, Indian Banks' Association (IBA) has appealed to people to wash their hands after touching or counting currency. It also asked customers to use online and mobile banking channels for making their transactions and avoid visiting bank branches as it could pose a risk to banks' front desk staff.

At the same time, IBA assured that the association and all its member banks would provide uninterrupted banking services, however, it also appealed to customers to visit branch premises only in the case of absolute necessity.

In its appeal, the association asked people to wash their hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before and after physical banking/currency counting/AEPS (Aadhaar-enabled payment system) transactions. IBA has also advised banks to use digital platform for lending. The banking association has launched a campaign 'Corona Se Daro Na, Digital Karo Na'.

In its appeal to the bank customers, the body said, "Our employees are also facing the same challenges that you all are and so, we are asking for your help too." It added, all the non-essential banking services, internet banking, mobile banking and electronic payment options such as RTGS and NEFT can be availed.