Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has contracted Al Shaali Marine Private Limited to build the ferries to be used for the second phase of the National Public Ferry Network launched as part of the Raajje Transport Link (RTL).
The agreement was signed by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MTCC Adam Azim and Chairman of Al Shaali Marine Abdulla Hussain Mohamed Al Shaali. Al Shaali Marine was awarded to contract 65 high-speed ferries for a cost of USD34.6 million. The company provided 17 ferries with a capacity of 50 passengers for the first phase of the ferry network.
Speaking at the ceremony, Azim said MTCC is aiming to connect all the islands across the country ahead of schedule although the project is expected to take two years to complete. He stated MTCC expects to connect about 10 atolls with ferries by end of next year.
Connecting all the islands of the Maldives with a high-speed ferry system is one of the important pledges of the government. 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 has now been connected by high-speed ferries under the first phase of the project. The service began in Haa Dhaalu Atoll on June 12, in Haa Alifu Atoll on July 3, and in Shaviyani Atoll on August 30.
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.