The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation has announced that studies required to extend the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry service to five additional atolls will commence this month.

The expansion is part of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to provide RTL services to all atolls by the end of the year, aimed at improving sea transport and offering faster, more convenient travel for the public.

According to the ministry, discussions have been held with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to conduct a baseline survey for Zone 4 as part of the RTL expansion project. The survey, scheduled for this month and next, will cover the atolls of Meemu, Faafu, Dhaalu, Thaa, and Laamu.

The ministry further revealed that 56 vessels are required to support the expansion, and construction of the additional ferries has already been commissioned.

At present, RTL services are available in 11 atolls. With the launch of services in Zone 4, the government will have four more atolls left to cover in order to complete the nationwide network.