21 RTL ferry stops handed over to public works
This project aims to connect the Maldives with a high-speed ferry system, enhancing inter-island transportation.
The Ministry of Transport has officially handed over the ferry stops and terminals developed under the Integrated National Public Ferry Network project to the Ministry of Cities, Local Government, and Public Works. This project aims to connect the Maldives with a high-speed ferry system, enhancing inter-island transportation.
A formal signing ceremony was held today at Villa College Hall, where representatives from the two ministries and the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) signed the handover document. The signatories included:
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Dr. Fathimath Muna, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Works
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Fathimath Shahaan Mohamed, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transport
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Ali Faathih, General Manager, MTCC
A total of 21 ferry stops and terminals developed in Zone 1—comprising Haa Alif, Haa Dhaalu, and Shaviyani Atoll—were officially transferred to the Public Works Ministry. Minister of Public Works Adam Shareef Umar stated that these ferry stops would be handed over to local councils within the next three months. This process will be completed after necessary legal procedures, including a review by the Attorney General’s Office and the signing of relevant agreements.
On social media platform X, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen expressed gratitude to President Mohamed Muizzu for his efforts in strengthening decentralization and improving connectivity across the Maldives.
The Integrated National Public Ferry Network is a large-scale project designed to connect the entire Maldives through a structured transportation system. It aligns with the National Spatial Plan (2020-2040) introduced by the previous MDP government. The ferry network consists of both passenger and freight ferry services, connecting islands within six designated regions.
Key elements of the passenger ferry network include:
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Commute Link – Short-distance routes connecting nearby islands for daily travel and essential needs.
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Non-Commute Link – Long-distance ferry routes between islands.
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Highway Link – Major transport routes connecting different regions.
The freight ferry service is an additional component of the project, ensuring all islands have direct access to the nearest commercial port.
The latest expansion of the high-speed ferry system under the Integrated Public Ferry Network recently connected Noonu Atoll. The RTL service is currently operational in three zones:
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1-
Haa Alif, Haa Dhaalu, Shaviyani, and Noonu Atoll Zone
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2-
Lhaviyani Atoll Zone
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3-
Gaafu Alif, Gaafu Dhaalu, Fuvamulah, and Addu Zone
