The RTL ferry services will expand nationwide this year, improving connectivity for the whole country with high speed ferry services, said President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu yesterday.
Giving the annual presidential address at the Parliament, Dr. Muizzu said the earliest addition to the transport link would begin in June at Raa atoll, with Baa atoll following in July.
"It is the government's policy to expand and accelerate the sea transport system to make it convenient for the public. Therefore, RTL ferry services will be launched throughout the country before the end of this year," the President said.
While the RTL service, which was launched during former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's administration, is being expanded by the incumbent government, MTCC was contracted to start ferry services in Noonu atoll, Raa and Baa atolls in April last year.
Services in these atolls were originally scheduled to begin within 2024.
RTL is currently providing services in Haa Alifu atoll, Haa Dhaalu atoll, Shaviyani atoll, Noonu atoll, Gaafu Alifu and Gaafu Dhaalu atoll as well as Addu City and Lhaviyani atoll. Some 25 vessels are in operation throughout the entire transport link.
In his address, the president said that a strong and reliable transport system is crucial given the geographical dispersion of Maldivian islands and the need for domestic travel between islands for basic necessities. He said it was important for the country's tourism as well.
Dr. Muizzu said reinforcing the air transport system of the country was also important, pledging that Velana International Airport's new terminal would open by October this year. He also said Addu City's Gan International Airport would be further developed within the year.
Islands scheduled for airport development this year:
- F. Nilandhoo
- Th. Guraidhoo
- Th. Vilufushi
- AA. Mathiveri
- GDh. Kaadedhhoo
- GA. Villingili
- Sh. Milandhoo
- Sh. Komandoo
- Sh. Bilehfahi
- R. Fainu
- HA. Dhidhhoo
- B. Thulhaadhoo
- L. Kadhhoo
The President said the development of the airports in these islands would be carried out in different phases this year. Additionally, work to expand HDh. Kulhudhuffushi and Sh. Funadhoo airport would also begin this year, he said.