RTL ferries to introduce free transfers for medical travel

Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation has announced plans to allow free transfers for those travelling for medical purposes on the RTL ferries.

Deputy Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Ibrahim Yasir told State TV PSM last week that patients needing treatment for major or chronic illnesses will soon be able to travel free on RTL ferries.

He said that the ministry will arrange this through collaboration with MTCC and NSPA.

Yasir noted that multiple discussions have been held between relevant agencies, and implementation is now approaching.

"A dedicated BML card will be issued via NSPA. The patient and an assistant can then travel on RTL ferries using this card," he explained.

The government has now introduced RTL ferry services in all atolls in northern and southern Maldives. The most recent addition was Baa Atoll last Monday.

The government aims to introduce the service in all atolls of the country by the end of the year.

The RTL ferry project, implemented by MTCC, costs MVR 800 million.

Last May, the Indian government extended a grant of MVR 100 million to expand the RTL ferry services. The government has decided to use these funds to build 12 high speed ferries.

When the project is completed, 80 high speed ferries will be in operation, providing ease of travel across the country.