ABOUT 1,700 migrant workers set off on their annual holiday journey, departing Shenzhen for their hometown Monday.

    They were the second batch of the beneficiaries who received free bus or train tickets that were subsidized by the Shenzhen Civil Affairs Bureau, Transport Commission and Shenzhen Welfare Lottery Center.

    On that chilly morning, about 40 buses along with more than 100 volunteers were waiting at Shenzhen Bus Station, offering transportation services to those who have emigrated to the city and make contributions to its development.

    It is the eighth consecutive year that the city offers free trips on the eve of Chinese New Year to travelers. It is estimated that more than 6,000 bus or train tickets will be handed out to workers from 40 cities.

    (Tan Yifan)