DHAKA: China will require identification from passengers buying long-distance bus tickets in far-western Xinjiang.

State media said on Wednesday, as police seek to monitor travel in a region beset by violence, reports The Straits Times.

Authorities, nervous about unrest in the region which is home to the Muslim Uighur minority group, have already introduced airline-like restrictions for city buses in the capital Urumqi, banning passengers from carrying onboard cigarette lighters, water and yogurt.

Beginning in September, passengers must present official identification to buy tickets at 119 bus stations in Xinjiang, the official Xinhua news agency said, citing a public security announcement.

‘Passengers’ ID and bus information will be printed on the tickets and also be uploaded to local police authorities,’ Xinhua said, adding that tickets would be checked for matching information.

China requires real-name registration for buying train tickets around the country, but rules for long-distance buses, widely used as a form of cheap transport, typically have been more relaxed.

BDST: 1627 HRS, AUG 20, 2014