CEO of Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), Ahmed Saudi, has announced that efforts are underway to establish Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry services across all atolls in the Maldives before the end of this year.
In an interview with state media PSM, Saudi emphasized that this initiative aligns with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s vision of providing efficient and convenient maritime transportation to all islands.
Saudi noted that a total of 56 vessels will be required to fully implement the nationwide service. Additional vessels are currently under construction, supported by a MVR 100 million grant from the Indian government.
“We will first start in R. Atoll, followed by B. Atoll. The aid received from India has been allocated for RTL, and construction of more vessels is ongoing,” said Saudi.
Currently, 81 islands across nine atolls are connected through RTL. Services are set to launch in R. Atoll this month and B. Atoll in July. The rollout is part of a three-phase strategy covering six regions of the country.