The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has announced that Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry services are set to begin in Zone 4, which comprises Meemu, Faafu, Dhaalu, Thaa, and Laamu atolls.

Speaking on state media, MTCC Assistant General Manager Abdulla Farish Hussain said preparations are underway as part of a nationwide expansion to roll out RTL services across all atolls before the end of the year. This initiative aligns with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s commitment to establishing an integrated national ferry network.

According to Deputy Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Ibrahim Yasir, RTL services are now operational in four zones. Most recently, the service was launched in Baa Atoll, completing Zone 2. Zone 1, which includes Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, and Shaviyani atolls with 41 islands, has already been covered. Services have also commenced in Zone 5 (Gaafu Alifu and Gaafu Dhaalu) and Zone 6 (Addu and Fuvahmulah).

Yasir added that the Ministry is accelerating efforts to support the expansion, including the construction of ferry terminals and procurement of additional ferries. A total of 27 terminals have been completed to date, with plans underway to begin building a new hub terminal in Raa Ungoofaaru. Mobilisation for this project has already started.

RTL services are currently active in 110 islands across 11 atolls, with further expansion expected in the coming months.