Safwan: The Border Ports Authority has clarified the reasons behind the recent surge of visitors at the Safwan border crossing, following the influx of pilgrims arriving to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam al-Kadhim (peace be upon him).

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Authority announced that a transition from paper-based to electronic systems for entry visas has been implemented. This shift, carried out in agreement with partnering countries, aims to streamline the process, saving time and effort while building a comprehensive database for each visitor entering the country.

In response to the increased number of visitors, the Authority has collaborated with several governmental bodies, including the Ministry of Interior’s Directorate of Civil Status and Passports, Residence and Local Administration in Safwan District, and the Husseini Processions Authority connected to the Holy Shrines. This collaboration focuses on fully mobilizing all available resources to manage the influx of visitors effectively.

To facilitate the swift processing of visitors, the directorate has doubled the number of operational computers to over 20. Additional personnel from other outlets have also been deployed to expedite procedures, ensuring a smooth accommodation process for this significant religious event while striving to deliver optimal services to the pilgrims.

The Authority emphasized its capacity and commitment to ensuring the secure entry of all visitors, drawing on experience from previous years, including during major pilgrimage events.