Hong Kong urged to promote Huanggang Port co-location crossing, bus parking

Ben Chan Han-pan, chairman of Hong Kong's Legislative Council transport panel, on Thursday called on authorities to step up promotion of the new co-location arrangement at the upgraded Huanggang Port checkpoint between Hong Kong and Shenzhen. He also stressed that the site must have adequate parking for buses. Chan's remarks came a day after the government tabled the Huanggang Port Hong Kong Port Area Bill, which provides the legal basis for implementing a co-location model at the border crossing.

Chan brushed aside concerns that the bill would be rushed through without sufficient scrutiny, noting that the Legislative Council has experience handling related legislation and that there would be ample time for lawmakers to raise questions. The upgraded facility will use a joint inspection model, allowing travellers to undergo immigration procedures on both sides in one go. Chan emphasized that authorities should clearly explain the arrangement to residents, who may be unsure whether they have crossed into mainland China.