The Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry service has carried over 600 passengers in the first four days of its test trial in Shaviyani Atoll.
Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure stated that the test trial began on August 30 and that 646 passengers have used the ferries travelling on seven routes in Shaviyani Atoll. Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (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 is using 17 ferries for routes established in Zone 1. The high-speed ferries are air-conditioned with toilet facilities and have dedicated areas for stretchers and wheelchairs. Tickets can be purchased online using a mobile application and prices range from USD2-13.
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.