Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has put a temporary restriction on ferry services for tourists visiting islands for excursions as a safety precaution against COVID-19.
The state-owned company announced the restriction following a statement from Director General of Public Health Maimoona Aboobakuru regarding the temporary ban of all excursion activities from islands, tourist resorts, safaris and guesthouses for a 10-day period. MTCC further stated the restriction was made effective starting from March 14. However, the company stated tourists travelling from and to Velana International Airport (VIA) will be permitted to use transportation services by presenting the ticket or the passport. Additionally, MTCC stated foreign workers will be permitted to use its ferry services by presenting work permits.
Many companies in Maldives are working to contain the spread of the virus in the country. The two major bus operators, MTCC and Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), has stated the vehicles are being disinfected and deep-cleaned on a daily basis as a precautionary measure against COVID-19.