Bank of Baroda is proposing to rationalize its branch structure, an exercise, the bank expects would impact some 800-900 branches across the country. The exercise is intended to improve operational efficiency, following its merger with Dena Bank and Vijaya Bank that became effective on 1 April. Besides rationalization of the branches, the bank has found need to close regional and zonal offices of merged entities as they would not be required. The bank is also mulling to expand its reach in eastern India. Following the 3-way merger, Bank of Baroda is now the second-largest public sector bank after State Bank of India with over 9500 branches, 13,400 ATMs, and 85,000 employees, serving 12 crore customers
