The Ministry of Economic Development and Transport announced that the RTL (Raajje Transport Link) ferry system has served around 1.6 million passengers since its launch four years ago.
Speaking on the “Trade Desk with Ana”, Deputy Minister Ibrahim Yasir highlighted the government’s meticulous tracking of passenger data, noting that travel patterns are regularly analysed to improve service delivery.
“Since the inception of RTL, we have kept detailed statistics on passenger numbers and which zones travel the most. In the last four years, about 1.6 million passengers have used the service,” he said.
The RTL network currently provides high‑speed ferry and bus services divided in different zones. In Zone 1 (covering Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu and Shaviyani Atolls) alone, roughly 1,000 people travel daily, making it the most fully established segment of the network.
Initially launched in three atolls, RTL has expanded to 15 atolls, with five still awaiting service. The Ministry plans to launch operations in Meemu Atoll later this month, followed by the remaining Zone 3 atolls – Kaafu, Alifu Alifu, Alifu Dhaalu and Vaavu – in line with the President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s directive.
Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) is conducting island‑wide awareness campaigns in Meemu Atoll, holding information sessions to prepare residents for the upcoming service.
The government’s ultimate goal is to connect the entire country before the end of the year, providing affordable and reliable transportation for essential travel such as public commuting and health services.