HONG KONG, April 21(Xinhuanet)-- Two automated vehicle clearance systems opened Thursday at Hong Kong's Lok Ma Chau checkpoint to improve traffic flows.

Cross-boundary drivers who are Hong Kong permanent residents holding smart identity cards may use these e-channels for immigration clearance, said a government press release.

Eighteen immigration auto-gates at Lo Wu control point, the largest of its kind among land check points in Hong Kong, have become operational.

Also known as e-channels, the gates were first launched at Lo Wu departure hall in December 2004.

The e-channels, at the departure kiosk No. 11 and arrival kioskNo. 11 at Lok Ma Chau checkpoint, aim to help cross-boundary drivers familiarize themselves with the operation. They are open to traffic from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m..

The Immigration Department will fine-tune the system and roll out more e-channels in the coming months. Enditem