The Linking Road branch has been specially identified for launching the 12-hours banking concept as it is located in an area where the benefit would reach a large segment of the community which is an ideal mix of discerning personal and small business segment customers. ``This step has been taken also in response to the long felt need of customers to keep the bank branch open for longer duration,'' he added.

Speaking about the pioneering initiatives already taken by the bank to render better services, Vaidya referred to the setting up of branches of the corporate accounts groups for the top corporates and specialised `P' segment branches at various locations in India to cater tothe requirements of high network individuals, one of which was recently opened at Hiranandani Complex, Powai.

``The retail customer can look forward to efficient services at the many personal banking branches or boutiques which are being opened throughout the country,'' he said.

The chief general manager of Mumbai circle, A K Purwar, highlighted the account of the bank on technology and customer oriented services. As many as 225 out of 843 branches of SBI in Mumbai circle are fully computerised. ``There will be additional 70 such branches by March 2000. In all these computerised branches, banking hours for the public have been extended by an additional two hours,'' he said.