Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has launched Raajje Transport Link (RTL) minibus service in Villimale' with environmentally friendly buses.
The bus service was officially launched by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MTCC Adam Azim. In addition, Parliamentarian Ahmed Usham and MTCC officials were also present at the ceremony.
Speaking to the media after the official launch of the bus service in Villimale', Azim said that the residents of Villimale' have been living on the island for many years but the lack of an adequate public transport system has made life difficult. He said the elderly, people with special needs, and students complain about getting from one place to another during harsh weather.
Additionally, Azim said the service was launched with the special instructions of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. He also said the routes and schedule of the service have been formulated with the transportation needs of the general public in mind.
The bus route and schedule were designed with easy access to schools, beach areas, offices, industrial areas, hospital, and ferry terminal, with the aim of providing easy access to every resident of the island, regardless of where they live. A total of the company's latest six electronic vehicles (EV) buses will be used to provide bus services, according to MTCC.
RTL bus service will be provided seven days a week in Villimale'. The bus service will be available between 5-10 minutes at each bus stop. The service is completely free for the first two weeks. After the trial period, passengers can travel using MasterCard/Visacard, QR ticketing, or pay for tickets. MTCC has not yet announced the price for a bus ride, however, prices are expected to be finalised and announced by the end of the two-week trial.