Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has prepared to begin the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry service in Shaviyani Atoll.
MTCC began the RTL high-speed ferry service in Zone 1 of the National Public Ferry Network, which consists of 30 inhabited islands in Haa Alifu Atoll, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, and Shaviyani Atoll. The service began in Haa Dhaalu Atoll on June 12 and in Haa Alifu Atoll on July 3.
MTCC initially scheduled the commencement of the ferry service in Shaviyani Atoll for the last week of July. However, MTCC stated that maintenance work had to be done on the ferries transported to the atoll, causing a delay in the commencement of the service. The state-owned company is now working to begin the service before the end of August.
Four high-speed ferries will be used for Shaviyani Atoll while a total of 17 ferries will be used for Zone 1. The ferries are air-conditioned with toilet facilities and have dedicated areas for stretches and wheelchairs. The cost of a ticket ranges from USD2-13 and can be purchased online using a mobile application.
The National Public Ferry Network is a large-scale project that introduces efficient, affordable, convenient, and sustainable passenger and cargo ferry services to all administrative islands of the country. In line with the Decentralisation Act, it aims to facilitate inclusive regional development by connecting people and services, accelerating social and economic growth, improving efficiency in the delivery of public services, and improving mobility and accessibility for all citizens in all areas of the nation. The government aims to connect all Maldivian islands using the ferry network by the end of 2023.