Mohsin Naqvi reviews expanded immigration facilities at Lahore Airport

LAHORE, Aug 26 (APP): Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi on Wednesday visited Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore and reviewed the newly expanded immigration area, which has been opened for passengers after being completed in just 15 days to facilitate travelers and reduce waiting time amid increased passenger rush.

During his visit, the minister reviewed the arrangements made for passengers. He also observed the immigration process and interacted with passengers to inquire about their experience and the facilities being provided to them.

The number of immigration lines in the expanded area has been increased from seven to 20, a major enhancement aimed at improving passenger flow and reducing congestion at the airport.

Mohsin Naqvi said the opening of the expanded immigration area within only 15 days was the result of the continuous day-and-night efforts of the Federal Secretary Defence, Civil Aviation authorities, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and other relevant institutions. He appreciated the coordinated efforts of all the relevant departments for making the additional area operational within such a short period.

The interior minister said that previously only seven to eight immigration lines were available, while the availability of 20 lines would significantly reduce passengers’ waiting time and help manage the rush more effectively. “During the rush season, our priority was to provide immediate relief to passengers instead of waiting for the completion of permanent construction work,” he said.

In view of the increased passenger rush, the FIA took immediate measures and installed additional immigration counters to make the expanded area functional without waiting for the installation of new permanent counters.

Mohsin Naqvi said the new permanent immigration counters would be installed soon, while the remaining construction work would also be completed at the earliest.

The minister also closely reviewed the immigration process and the checking of passengers’ travel documents. He appreciated an FIA Assistant sub-inspector for stopping a passenger carrying incomplete travel documents and encouraged the official for performing his duty diligently. He directed the FIA officials to conduct thorough scrutiny of travel documents and strictly ensure that no passenger carrying incomplete travel documentation was allowed to travel.

The minister stressed that passenger facilitation should remain a priority, particularly during peak travel periods, while immigration officials must ensure strict compliance with rules and complete verification of travel documents.