ICICI Bank opts for a two-shift, eight-to-eight work schedule

The bank has initiated the process in four regions - Delhi, Pune, Mumbai and Chandigarh - from 1 February 2003 and is contemplating introducing it in Ahmedabad and Hyderabad next week.

The Madurai region is expected to commence the eight-to-eight working schedule within the next fortnight.

Once through, as many as 420 branches, including 50 extension counters, will remain open between 8 am and 8 pm. The rural branches, however, will stick to the existing work schedule.

The bank is planning to keep its branches open two shifts on weekdays and one shift on Sundays. To tackle the workload, the bank is on a hectic recruitment spree.

It is learnt that the unions have resisted the move on extended working hours and stated that they will stick to the eight-hour schedule.