Baroda UP Bank Employees Union Calls for AC Installation Amid Rising Temperature

The Baroda UP Bank Employees Union, affiliated with the All India Regional Rural Bank Employees Association (AIRRBEA), has issued an urgent call to the bank management to install air conditioners in branches across Uttar Pradesh. This plea comes as the region experiences severe heat wave, significantly affecting the health and productivity of bank employees.

Deteriorating Health of Bankers

The union’s letter emphasises the severe discomfort and health risks posed by the soaring temperatures. Employees are suffering from headaches, migraines, vomiting, and other heat-related ailments, making it difficult to perform their duties effectively. The union argues that air conditioning is not merely a luxury but a necessity for maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.

This summer, the heat has become a life-threatening issue for government officials and common people. Amid the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, many polling officials died in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. In UP alone, 33 poll personnel succumbed to heat-related conditions during the seventh phase of the Lok Sabha election held in 13 constituencies.

Image: Letter of the Baroda UP Bank Employees’ Union urging installation of ACs in branches.

Discrimination in Installing ACs

Additionally, the letter highlights an issue of discrimination in the installation of air conditioners. Recently, ACs have been installed in some branches, but they are primarily located in officers' cabins, excluding the clerical workforce. A member of the union told Kanal, “This unequal treatment within the same bank is an unhealthy sign and should be corrected immediately. The union insists that the issue should be resolved at the earliest to ensure fair and equal working conditions for all employees.”

In their appeal, the union highlighted the remarkable dedication and resilience shown by the bank employees, who have continued to deliver outstanding service despite the harsh working conditions. This commitment was particularly evident in the recent FY24 annual results, where the bank achieved impressive financial performance. The union asserts that providing a conducive work environment, including the installation of air conditioners, is essential to sustaining this high level of service and employee morale.

The Baroda UP Bank Employees Union's letter is part of their broader effort to advocate for improved working conditions and employee welfare, aiming for sustainable, good performance. They hope that the management will recognize the urgency of this issue and take swift action to install air conditioners in all branches. Such a move would not only enhance employee well-being but also set a positive example for other banks in the region, ensuring that all bank employees can work in a safe and comfortable environment.

In conclusion, the union’s call for air conditioning installation underscores the critical need for better workplace amenities, especially in light of the extreme weather conditions. By addressing this pressing issue, the management can demonstrate their commitment to employee welfare and operational excellence, fostering a more productive and motivated workforce. The union has assured that if the decision to install ACs is made, they will ensure a result-oriented collective effort to make the bank No. 1.