The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has received the first vessel commissioned for use in the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry service in Zone 5 consisting of Gaafu Alifu Atoll and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
MTCC stated that the ferry was delivered by Al Shaali Marine Private Limited and that it marks a significant milestone for the RTL ferry service as the state-owned company works towards expanding service nationwide. MTCC said the new ferry has more space compared to the other vessels and that it expects to receive a total of six vessels in order to commence the RTL ferry service in Gaafu Alifu Atoll and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll in July. The ferries have a 50-person passenger capacity with enough space for wheelchairs and stretchers.
The state-owned company added that the initiative also involves connecting ferry routes to Fuvahmulah City and Addu City. MTCC stated that the RTL service will commence with free ferry rides in order for residents of Gaafu Alifu Atoll and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll to familiarise themselves with the service. It will also allow MTCC to improve the service based on feedback.
The RTL high-speed ferry service currently connects 41 islands in Haa Alifu Atoll, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Shaviyani Atoll, and Lhaviyani Atoll. The National Public Ferry Network provided via RTL is a large-scale project that introduces efficient, affordable, and convenient passenger and cargo ferry services to all administrative islands of the country. The government aims to connect all islands using the ferry network by the end of 2023. RTL ferry service will be provided in six zones with 82 vessels reaching 188 ferry terminals.