Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has commenced the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry service in Lhaviyani Atoll.
MTCC transferred the ferries to Lhaviyani Atoll in Zone 2 of the National Public Ferry Network on November 16. The state-owned company conducted technical tests on November 17-20 and began the service on November 21. Passengers will be able to use the service for free until November 28.
Two ferries are being used to establish three routes between six islands in Lhaviyani Atoll. As such, the ferries will travel on routes connecting Olhuvelifushi, Kurendhoo, Felivaru, Madivaru, Naifaru, and Hinnavaru. MTCC is allowing passengers to use the ferries for free for one week in order to familiarise the public with the service. Tickets will be available for purchase at the RTL website and mobile application from November 24. The price of a ticket for the Lhaviyani routes ranges between USD2-8.
The RTL high-speed ferry service has been established 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 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.