PNC Office inauguration disrupts capital transport; RTL bus services suspended for hours
Many noted that suspending RTL bus services was particularly unacceptable during the ongoing school holidays, when large numbers of people from the atolls are in Malé City.
As part of the official inauguration of the PNC Office | Raajje MV
The official inauguration of the main ruling People’s National Congress’ (PNC) office, following extensive and costly renovations, has resulted in a four-hour suspension of several Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) RTL bus routes.
According to an announcement made by MTCC, the temporary suspension stemmed from the closure of a section of Boduthakurufaanu Magu near the Artificial Beach area.
The affected routes included services from the Carnival area to Hulhumalé Phase I, the Carnival to Hulhumalé Phase II route, and the Ameenee route.
These services were halted from 8pm Thursday to 12am on Friday. MTCC also stated that adjustments were made to the Orchid route during this period.
The disruption prompted criticism from members of the public, who voiced frustration over the travel difficulties caused by the event.
Many noted that suspending RTL bus services was particularly unacceptable during the ongoing school holidays, when large numbers of people from the atolls are in Malé City.
The building that now serves as the PNC headquarters previously housed the main office of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and later functioned as a hub for The Democrats, the party formed by former President Mohamed Nasheed after leaving MDP.
PNC assumed control of the premises following the most recent presidential election.
The newly opened PNC office is a four-storey building. While it has been reported that the party spent a substantial amount on the construction and renovation, the exact cost has not been disclosed.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by cabinet ministers, members of Parliament, heads of state-owned enterprises, as well as general members of PNC.
