Pakistani government has made biometric verification mandatory for all international passengers at airports nationwide. This initiative, led by the Ministry of Interior, aims to enhance the screening process, preventing fugitives and wanted criminals from entering or leaving the country undetected. Biometric verification will also align Pakistan’s security systems with international standards, ensuring that all travelers undergo thorough screening before boarding their flights.
Biometric Machines Installed at Airports
According to an official notification from the Ministry of Interior, biometric machines are set to be installed at immigration counters in international airports across Pakistan. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has been directed to ensure swift and complete implementation of these changes. The installation of these machines is expected to modernize Pakistan’s airport security, making it nearly impossible for individuals with pending legal cases to slip through border controls.
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These machines will verify passengers’ identities through fingerprint and facial recognition, enabling immigration authorities to cross-check data with a centralized database. According to officials, the Ministry of Interior envisions this technology as a tool to curb illegal movements and facilitate seamless passenger verification.
E-Gates to Improve Traveler Convenience
In addition to biometric verification, the government is installing E-gates at major airports. This development, piloted by experts from France at airports in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, aims to reduce congestion at check-in and immigration points by automating the boarding pass issuance process. Travelers can simply scan their passports and tickets at these E-gates, eliminating the need to wait in long queues for manual verification and boarding passes.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) clarified that the E-gates utilize data embedded in passport biometric chips. Through biometric authentication—including fingerprint, facial, and iris recognition—E-gates offer a streamlined travel experience. Once a passenger’s identity is verified, the gate opens automatically, enabling a quick and secure boarding process.
Strengthening Security for International Workers
The biometric system comes amidst increasing security concerns for international workers in Pakistan, particularly Chinese nationals working on projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and non-CPEC projects. Following recent attacks that tragically resulted in the deaths of Chinese engineers, the Sindh government is prioritizing the protection of foreign workers. Sindh Interior Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar stressed the need for coordinated security efforts to safeguard Chinese nationals and urged local businesses to participate actively in ensuring the safety of their foreign employees.
Expanding International Standards
This comprehensive security upgrade is part of Pakistan’s broader initiative to align its airport security protocols with international standards. Biometric authentication at airports is widely regarded as a reliable and efficient tool in border security, used by numerous countries worldwide. By implementing this system, Pakistan hopes to gain international recognition for its modernized security measures, enhancing its reputation as a safe travel destination.
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The installation of biometric systems reflects the country’s efforts to adopt technologies that meet international standards in terms of passenger verification and security. The Interior Ministry is optimistic that these systems will deter criminal activity and enhance the safety and convenience of international travel. Moreover, this technology will support Pakistan’s commitment to counter global security threats, bringing its border controls closer to the advanced systems employed by other nations.