What changed
RBI issued a circular on April 13, 2009, advising banks to provide ramps at existing and future ATMs and branch entrances for wheelchair accessibility. Banks are also advised to ensure that at least one-third of new ATMs are talking ATMs with Braille keypads, with at least one such ATM generally available in each locality, and inform visually impaired customers of their locations.
What it means for you
Banks are advised to invest in physical infrastructure modifications like ramps and height adjustments at all ATMs and branches to improve accessibility. The advice to install talking ATMs with Braille keypads for at least one-third of new ATMs may increase costs but improve service inclusivity for visually impaired customers.
What you must do
- Conduct an audit of all existing ATMs and branch entrances to identify where ramps are needed and take necessary steps to install them.
- Adjust ATM heights at all locations to ensure wheelchair users can operate them without difficulty.
- Plan new ATM installations so that at least one-third are talking ATMs with Braille keypads, and coordinate with other banks to ensure at least one such ATM generally available in each locality.
- Communicate the locations of talking ATMs to visually impaired customers through appropriate channels.
Who it affects
All scheduled commercial banks (excluding RRBs), Bank branch operations teams, ATM deployment and maintenance teams, Customer service and accessibility officers, Visually impaired and wheelchair-using customers
Does this circular apply to existing ATMs or only new ones?
It applies to both: existing ATMs should be provided with ramps and height adjustments, while new ATMs must also include these features plus at least one-third must be talking ATMs with Braille keypads.
What is the deadline for compliance?
The circular advises banks to take necessary steps promptly, but does not specify a specific deadline.
Are RRBs exempt from this requirement?
Yes, the circular explicitly excludes Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) from its scope, so they are not required to comply.