Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has commenced final preparations to launch high-speed ferry services in Huvadhoo Atoll under Raajje Transport Link (RTL).

Planning Ministry has been holding discussions with the local councils and authorities of islands situated in Huvadhoo Atoll regarding the impending launch of RTL ferry service in the atoll.

GDh. Nadella Council President Mohamed Anshau told Sun on Thursday that meetings have been held to seek residents’ opinions and the council’s visions regarding the service.

“They have established where the ferry terminal will be developed and sought various information regarding the island such as the number of shops, cafés and restaurants in addition to the number of people who travel from and to the island,” he detailed.

Anshau said the launch of the RTL ferry service will be highly appreciated by residents. The service is expected to ease many difficulties they presently face with respect to transportation. 

MTCC was handed over the first speedboat required to launch RTL ferry service in Huvadhoo Atoll on April 5th.

Back then, the company said six speedboats required to provide services in Huvadhoo Atoll will be completed by July. They added that six speedboats will be used to provide services in Huvadhoo Atoll under the first phase.

At present, RTL services are available in Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, Shaviyani and Lhaviyani atolls.

RTL ferry service is provided under the government’s ‘Integrated National Public Ferry Network’ which aims to connect the Maldivian islands through a high-speed ferry network. This is an electoral pledge of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.