ISLAMABAD - Finance Minister Ishaq Dar yesterday took strong notice of the difficulties being faced by pensioners in collecting pensions at various bank branches.

He directed State Bank of Pakistan Governor Ashraf Wathra on telephone to contact the National Bank authorities and redress the problems of pensioners.

The minister also advised SBP to ensure 24-hour operation of ATM service by the banks to facilitate customers during the Eid holidays. The finance minister said sufficient cash must be kept available in ATMs to facilitate people and save them from any inconvenience, according to a statement issued by the ministry.