Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has begun preparations to begin the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry service in Shaviyani Atoll.
MTCC began the RTL 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 has transferred four ferries and aims to establish the service in Shaviyani Atoll by early September. General Manager of Marine Transport Ismail Fariq said the first week of service will be free-of-charge and that the ferries will be traveling on seven routes. The high-speed ferries being used in Zone 1 are air-conditioned with toilet facilities and have dedicated areas for stretchers and wheelchairs. Tickets can be purchased online using a mobile application.
The National Public Ferry Network is a large-scale project that introduces efficient, affordable, and convenient 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.