Huanggang 'to see 100,000 daily crossings initially'

The new Huanggang port is set to manage a minimum of 100,000 travelers per day during the initial stages of its opening, as reported by Immigration Director Benson Kwok. Kwok revealed that his department is collaborating with Shenzhen authorities to refine the operational system in line with the "collaborative inspection and joint clearance" model.

This partnership aims to enhance the efficiency of the crossings, ensuring seamless transfer of travellers' identity, facial image, and fingerprint data across the ports of departure and entry. Kwok emphasized that both jurisdictions are striving for the port's reopening as soon as possible, once it meets the criteria of safety, smoothness, and efficiency.

Upon their first use of the self-service channel at the refurbished port, travelers will face a slightly longer process as they must consent to data sharing for verification purposes. Additionally, travelers can opt for facial recognition, which would eliminate the need for travel documents in future crossings. Kwok mentioned that prior to the full launch, the app enabling prior registration for facial recognition will be announced, or travelers can utilize self-service kiosks at the port.

The department is actively recruiting more personnel, having already hired over 100 retired officers on a contract basis.