Government to introduce single-point screening system at airports to reduce delays

The government on Wednesday decided to introduce a single-point screening system at airports to improve passenger comfort and reduce delays.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi chaired a high-level meeting in Islamabad aimed at developing a joint strategy between the defense and interior ministries to improve airport operations and public comfort.

The meeting reviewed joint measures to improve passenger facilitation at Islamabad and other airports and decided to ensure stronger coordination among all relevant agencies. The authorities approved the installation of advanced control machines to improve the control system.

It was further agreed that common windows would be established, introducing a single control mechanism to reduce delays. Progress in installing electronic gates was also assessed.

Naqvi focused on providing passengers with faster customs clearance and easier travel procedures. “A unified screening system on a single scanner will save considerable time,” he noted, adding that better coordination between institutions was essential to reduce crowding and long queues at airports.

“We are committed to providing the public with modern, fast and convenient means of transportation,” Naqvi said.

Defense Secretary Muhammad Ali informed the meeting members that the latest machines were being imported to protect aircraft from bird damage and potential accidents.

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State Minister Talal Chaudhry, Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha, Defense Secretary Lt Gen (R) Muhammad Ali, Interior Additional Secretary Major General Noor Wali Khan, Defense Additional Secretary Major General Qaiser Suleman, DG Anti-Narcotics Force Major General Abdul Mueed and DG FIA Dr Usman Anwar attended the session.

In January, Naqvi ordered strict screening of travel documents at airports.

In recent years, the Federal Investigation Agency has also stepped up its operations against illegal immigration after a series of interceptions at major airports involving false documents and suspicions of internal collusion.