Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has revealed the development of all ferry terminals under Zone 1 of the National Public Ferry Network (NPFN) will be completed by July.
Speaking on the progress of the NPFN project, CEO of MTCC Adam Azim said services of the ferry network will begin with 40 islands included in Zone 1, with ferry terminals to be developed in 6 main islands and ferry stops to be developed in the remaining islands. Azim said construction of 4 terminals are ongoing, with work on the other two terminals also set to begin very soon. He noted the ferry terminal in Hanimaadhoo will reach completion on January 25, becoming the first terminal to be completed under the project.
Speaking further, Azim noted Gulf Craft is building the 17 ferries to be used under the first phase of NPFN Zone 1 Service. He revealed 4 of the ferries are nearly complete, while the remaining 13 are also expected to be ready by end of April. He added testing of the vessels will begin later this month.
The ferry network is a large-scale project that introduces efficient, affordable, convenient and sustainable 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, accelerate social and economic growth, improve efficiency in the delivery of public services and improve mobility and accessibility for all citizens in all areas of the nation.
The proposed network classifies six central regions, as identified in the National Spatial Plan (2020-2040), and would provide two separate networks for passenger transit and movement of goods and services (cargo ferry) within and in between the regions—linking maritime transport with land and air transport. The ferry network would connect islands within the areas and between areas via three types of links; commute links, non-commute links and highway links.