Preparations have been completed to launch Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry services in Laamu Atoll starting Tuesday.

The high-speed ferry service, operated by the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), will be officially inaugurated at a special ceremony in the atoll.

As part of efforts to familiarise residents with the service, MTCC conducted awareness sessions in Laamu Dhan'bidhoo and Laamu Maabaidhoo on Monday.

Earlier this month, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen said efforts were underway to commence RTL services in Laamu and Meemu Atolls before the end of March. The service was most recently introduced in Faafu and Dhaalu Atolls.

RTL services are initially provided free of charge for one week in each atoll, allowing residents to become familiar with the system. Fares are introduced thereafter for inter-island travel and connections to other atolls.

The RTL network is being rolled out nationwide in phases, with the aim of establishing an affordable and efficient sea transport system across the Maldives. To date, RTL ferry services have been launched in 133 islands across 14 atolls.

Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has stated that RTL ferry services are expected to commence across all atolls of the Maldives before the end of June.