The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has revealed that preparations are underway to begin the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry service in Gaafu Alifu Atoll and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll in July.
MTCC has been conducting awareness programmes on the RTL ferry service on various islands in both atolls since June 15 in order to educate the public, employees, councils, and various government institutions. As such, awareness programmes have been held in Dhaandhoo, Kolamaafushi, Dhaandhoo, Dhevvadhoo, Kooddoo, Maamendhoo and Nilandhoo in Gaafu Alifu Atoll, and Thinadhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
MTCC stated that the ferries were delivered by Al Shaali Marine Private Limited in April and that it marks a significant milestone for the RTL ferry service as the state-owned company works towards expanding the service nationwide. MTCC said the new ferries have 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. The ferries have a 50-person passenger capacity with enough space for wheelchairs and stretchers.
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.