The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) is advancing its plan to expand the nation's high-speed ferry system, with Raajje Transport Link (RTL) services expected to launch in Raa Atoll later this month and in Baa Atoll by late July, according to MTCC Managing Director Ahmed Saudee. The move marks a significant step in President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's pledge to connect all inhabited islands through the RTL network before the year's end.
The company's readiness was affirmed by Saudee in an interview with PSM News. "By the end of this month, we expect to commence RTL operations in Raa Atoll. Then, in parallel, RTL service will be initiated in Baa Atoll by the end of July," he said.
As part of the preparations for the Raa launch, MTCC has introduced a public awareness programme scheduled through 21 June. Designed to familiarise residents with ferry schedules and ticketing procedures, the initiative is, according to MTCC, one of several steps aimed at ensuring a smooth rollout. In addition to this, MTCC stated that the first week of RTL operations in Raa Atoll would feature complimentary trial trips. These journeys are intended to facilitate final testing and refinements ahead of full implementation, the company said.
The mandate to operate RTL services in both Raa and Baa Atolls was granted to MTCC on 15 April 2024. That same day, the company was also commissioned to expand service to Noonu Atoll, where ferries began operating on 24 July 2024.
The RTL initiative, overseen by MTCC and organised across six regional zones, is intended to unify maritime transport nationwide. With Noonu Atoll now connected to 13 inhabited islands, the network has expanded to reach 81 islands across nine atolls.