State suffers as citizens struggle to access digitalized services: MP Mauroof
MP Mauroof emphasized the need for more accessible arrangements when digitalizing services, noting that many travelers still rely on traditional ferries due to difficulties in booking RTL ferry tickets. He highlighted that failure to raise public awareness regarding these digital services would adversely affect both the citizens and the state. Consequently, he called for a more robust system with easily accessible travel information to ensure the long-term sustainability of the transport network.
Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency, Mauroof Zakir, delivers a speech during a session of the People's Majlis. | Majilis
Mauroof Zakir, the Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency, stated that the state is incurring losses due to the public's inability to easily access digitized services.
During Monday's Parliament sitting, MP Mauroof highlighted the current state of the transportation system in Baa Atoll. He noted that despite the availability of the RTL ferry service, many residents continue to use traditional wooden ferries due to difficulties in the ticketing process.
Member of Parliament Mauroof stated that when digitalizing services, it is essential to ensure they are easily accessible and user-friendly for the public, while simultaneously emphasizing the need to increase public awareness.
On some days, while RTL ferries travel empty, nearly a hundred passengers can be seen commuting on traditional wooden ferries. When questioned, most people state that the difficulty in booking tickets is the primary reason. As we work towards digitalization and debate related legislation, I believe this is a critical issue we must consider. It is essential that we address the challenges the public faces in booking tickets, whether it stems from a lack of awareness or the absence of a user-friendly system. Ensuring that convenient arrangements are in place for all citizens is of the utmost importance.Mauroof Zakir, Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency.
Highlighting that services are established to provide convenience to the public, Member Mauroof stated that if citizens are unable to utilize these services, it results in losses for both the public and the state. Member Mauroof further emphasized that the ferry service arrangements must be improved and better organized than they are at present.
MP Mauroof stated that as the RTL service continues to digitalize and connect islands, arrangements must be made to ensure that travel schedules, timings, and all relevant information are easily accessible to the public. He further noted that while the service would be beneficial if provided sustainably, the current operational model is leading to losses. He added that, under the present circumstances, the revenue generated would not even cover the operational costs.
