RTL ferry service launched in Huvadhoo Atoll

Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has launched high-speed ferry services in Huvadhoo Atoll under Raajje Transport Link (RTL) on Thursday.

Six speedboats required for the operations were sent to the atoll last week. The service which was launched on Thursday, will be free-of-charge for a period of one week as a trial period.

MTCC’s CEO Adam Azim was present at Thinadhoo in Huvadhoo Atoll when the ferry bound from Rathafandhoo docked at the island. Speaking to the press at the scene, Azim said Huvadhoo Atoll residents were extremely happy with the inception of a fast and cheap transportation service within the atoll.

“If unhappy with the services provided by MTCC, please make suggestions. If it is physically doable, we will have it done immediately,” he added.

Azim said MTCC’s whole team was wholeheartedly ready to provide services to the public.

Speaking regarding the launch of RTL ferry service in Huvadhoo Atoll – Thinadhoo Council President Saudhulla Ali, underscoring many residents from the atoll travel to Thinadhoo for various purposes every day, said the service had cut down their travel time from five hours to two hours.

He expressed confidence that the service will increase the number of people traveling from one island to the other within the atoll, which would further strengthen their bonds and pave way for development.

A passenger who traveled from Rathafandhoo to Thinadhoo said the launch of RTL ferry service has significantly eased their pockets. Underscoring traveling to Thinadhoo previously cost MVR 1,000, the passenger said the service has significantly lowered the cost.

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.

With the launch of the service in Huvadhoo Atoll – RTL services are now available in Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, Shaviyani, Lhaviyani, Gaafu Alifu and Gaafu Dhaalu atolls.