As a series of celebratory events unfolds, the Shenzhen-Hong Kong boundary control points are expected to see a surge in passenger traffic during the Golden Week holiday. At this moment, Force members not only need to ensure the smooth and orderly operation of the control points, but also race against time to prepare for the upcoming commissioning of the new Huanggang Port this year.

Standing firm through the festive surge

“The National Day holiday is the busiest time for our port officers,” said Inspector Yu Chak-ho of Lok Ma Chau Division.

Major holidays bring heavy cross-boundary passenger flows, requiring his team to heighten alertness and enforce comprehensive crowd and traffic management measures to ensure smooth journeys for travellers. With nearly four years of experience at Lok Ma Chau Division, Yu participates in the operational planning and deployment for the new Huanggang Port.

Anticipating a brand-new clearance xperience

Yu highlighted that the defining feature of the new Huanggang Port is its seamless connectivity between Shenzhen and Hong Kong. Travellers using the collaborative inspection automated channels will be able to complete immigration formalities for both places in a single process.

To ensure the flawless operation of this innovative mode of clearance, forward planning is essential. The team assesses potential surges in cross-boundary passenger flow driven by long holidays or major events, communicates with Chinese Mainland counterparts in advance, and adjusts deployment strategies in a timely manner.

Integrating cross-sector experience to build a communication bridge between the two places

If Yu is the “brain” behind operational deployment, Inspector Ng Tin-lun acts as the “bridge” for close communication between the two places. Before joining the Force, Ng was responsible for liaising with Chinese Mainland departments in the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau. That experience enabled him to witness the technological advancements in the Chinese Mainland, and gain an understanding of the Chinese Mainland team’s efficient and pragmatic working style.

“Conditions at a boundary control point can change rapidly,” Ng said. “From management to frontline staff, our communication and cooperation with Chinese Mainland departments are now closer and more immediate than before, ensuring that both sides remain abreast of the latest developments and can respond swiftly to contingencies.”

Witnessing the hub’s rise and sharing travel convenience

The new Huanggang Port marks a new milestone in Shenzhen-Hong Kong clearance arrangements and an important step in Hong Kong’s integration into the overall national development.

The team looks forward to the new port offering the public a brand-new, fast and smooth clearance experience, making travel between Shenzhen and Hong Kong easier and more convenient.