Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry service has been launched at Noonu Atoll as part of MTCC’s efforts to link all Maldivian atolls via an integrated ferry network.

The service was launched by Local Governance Minister Adam Shareef during a ceremony held at Manadhoo in Noonu Atoll on Thursday evening. He was accompanied by Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen and Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim.

The ceremony was also attended by MTCC’s CEO Abdulla Ziyadh and lawmakers representing Noonu Atoll constituencies.

Speaking at the ceremony, MTCC’s CEO Ziyadh said the company’s priority while providing such a service is the safety of passengers. In this trajectory, he said the company hinges its travel undertakings in accordance with instructions issued by weather authorities.

MTCC's CEO Abdulla Ziyad speaks at the launching ceremony of RTL ferry service in Noonu Atoll on July 25, 2024. (Photo/Transport Ministry)

He added that the company’s main aim is to ensure hassle-free and comfortable travel arrangements for passengers.

“In this regard, RTL ferry service will be available at three routes in Noonu Atoll on all seven days of the week via two high-speed ferries. It will be ensured that Noonu Atoll residents receive the service at a feasible price and by the schedule. Furthermore, the expansion of ferry service to other atolls in this zone in the future will make the hopes of this atoll’s residents a reality,” ZIyadh said.

Thirteen residential islands in Noonu Atoll will be linked with the commencement of RTL service in Noonu Atoll on Wednesday. The ferry service, which will be provided via two high-speed ferries, will officially commence on Friday.

The service will be provided free of charge from Friday to August 1st to allow residents to familiarize themselves with the service. During this period, the service will be provided by name noting and allocating a certain amount of seats to every island.

The high-speed ferries utilized in the provision of service have a capacity of 50 people including two seats for wheelchairs. They are equipped with a toilet with “universal accessibility” features that would allow people with special needs, senior citizens, and pregnant women to easily use the facility.

RTL ferry service is presently also available at Haa Alifu Atoll, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Shaviyani Atoll, Lhavniyani Atoll and some southern atolls.