RTL ferry services launched in Faafu and Dhaalu Atoll
MTCC has announced that travel on the newly launched RTL ferry service in Faafu and Dhaalu Atoll will be free of charge until October 25th. While the company plans to operate six routes, including inter-atoll travel, and anticipates a significant boost to the region's transport network and economy, the service has already faced public criticism. Residents have expressed concern over frequent schedule changes and the suspension of ferry operations on Fridays.
RTL ferry services launched in Faafu and Dhaalu Atoll | MTCC | MTCC
The Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry service has officially commenced operations in Zone 4, covering Faafu and Dhaalu Atolls.
The service was officially inaugurated in both atolls on Tuesday by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen. The ceremony was attended by the High Commissioner of India to the Maldives, MTCC Managing Director Ahmed Saudhee, senior company officials, and a large number of the general public.
Following the launch of this service, MTCC announced that free travel will be available for one week in Faafu and Dhaalu Atoll, allowing the public to experience the RTL ferry network.
MTCC further highlighted that launching this service in these two atolls marks a significant economic milestone. The company stated that it will liberate residents from the constraints of island isolation and bring about a revolutionary transformation in the transport sector.
The company stated that starting from the 25th of this month, passengers will be required to purchase tickets for travel. Ticketing arrangements have been made available through the RTL website and mobile application.
MTCC has announced that it will operate a total of six routes across these two atolls. This includes one route within Faafu Atoll, two routes within Dhaalu Atoll, and a ferry route connecting the two atolls. The company further disclosed that the inter-atoll service will connect Nilandhoo in Faafu Atoll and Meedhoo in Dhaalu Atoll. MTCC also confirmed that two ferries will be utilized to provide these services.
Members of the public are expressing concerns that the current administration has significantly neglected the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry service, which had operated effectively under the previous government. Complaints have surfaced regarding the failure to adhere to established trip schedules, alongside growing frustration over the suspension of services on Fridays. Furthermore, residents highlighted that the absence of Friday trips poses a major inconvenience for those wishing to travel between islands during the weekend.
