AS many as 5 million people are expected to cross border checkpoints in Shenzhen during the Mid-Autumn Festival and the National Day holidays.

　　The estimate is an increase of 10 percent over the same period last year, yesterday’s Shenzhen Special Zone Daily reported.

　　Up to 20 special lanes will be opened at the Luohu Checkpoint when necessary, the report said. Canopies will be put up on the third floor of the checkpoint building for tour groups.

　　A task force for the prevention of theft, explosions and terrorism will also be on alert at the Luohu Checkpoint during the holidays.

　　Border officials were quoted by the Daily as suggesting that travel agencies should not choose checkpoints as assembly places. They also suggested that travelers avoid checkpoints at peak hours and on peak days.