Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has successfully transferred the necessary vessels to commence operations of the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry service in Gaafu Alifu Atoll and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
Preparations are underway for the launch of the RTL ferry service in Gaafu Alifu Atoll and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll on July 13. MTCC, a state-owned enterprise, has announced that passengers will be able to avail themselves of free ferry rides until July 20, allowing them to become familiar with the service. To ensure smooth operations, the company is currently training 80 employees to operate the ferries in the atolls.
In addition to the six new ferries already transferred, MTCC plans to transfer an additional four ferries in the near future to Gaafu Alifu Atoll and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. These new ferries offer increased capacity and improved amenities compared to the existing vessels. With a passenger capacity of 50 individuals, they are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and stretchers as well. Since June 15, the company has been conducting awareness programs on the RTL ferry service across various islands in both atolls, targeting public, employees, councils, and government institutions for better understanding and education.
The RTL high-speed ferry service currently connects 41 islands across Haa Alifu Atoll, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Shaviyani Atoll, and Lhaviyani Atoll. The National Public Ferry Network provided by RTL is an ambitious project aimed at introducing efficient, affordable, and convenient passenger and cargo ferry services to all administrative islands in the country. The government’s goal is to connect all islands through the ferry network by the end of 2023.
