RTL ferry services introduced in Dh and F atolls

High speed ferry, Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry services have been launched today in Dhaalu and Faafu atolls. 

The service was inaugurated in both atolls by Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen. 

Speaking at the ceremony in Dh atoll, Minister Ameen said that the remaining islands in the country will also be connected through high speed ferries within the next six months. 

He noted that at present, the service is provided in 123 islands across 12 atolls. 

Ameen announced that RTL ferries will now operate to 11 islands in Dh and F atoll now. Other islands in the zone will be included in the near future, he said.

Maldives being an archipelago is no reason for exclusion and distance, he said, assuring that islands will be connected through ferry systems to promote inter-island engagement. 

Ameen said that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is not simply aiming to establish a transport system, but to ensure that a culture of reliable sea transport within international guidelines is established. 

Currently, 12 vessels for RTL services are being built under the Indian government's High Impact Community Development Grant. Two of these vessels have now been completed, and are being used in the service in F and Dh atolls. 

Minister Ameen extended thanks to the government of India for their support. 

At the inauguration ceremony in F. Nilandhoo, Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives G. Balasubramanian stated that the project was conducted under a grant extended through an MoU signed in May last year. He praised the Maldives' government and people for executing the project in such a short time frame despite obvious challenges. 

The High Commissioner reflected on the historical close ties between Maldives and India, observing that bilateral relations have further strengthened in various areas under President Muizzu's administration. 

RTL ferry services are provided by MTCC. The project spans over three phases in six separate zones. The project cost is MVR 800 million. RTL Ferry services were introduced in 2022.