India grants MVR 100 million to expand Maldives ferry network
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that these projects will contribute to the development of the ferry network.
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India has committed MVR 100 million to support the further expansion of the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry system in the Maldives.
The funding was confirmed during a ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, where 13 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed under the third phase of India’s High Impact Community Development Scheme. The agreements relate to the implementation of 13 individual projects intended to enhance ferry connectivity across the Maldives.
The MoUs were signed by Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel on behalf of the government of Maldives. The Indian government was represented by High Commissioner G. Balasubramanian. Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen signed as the implementing agency for the projects.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that these projects will contribute to the development of the ferry network and are intended to improve nationwide connectivity.
Speaking at the event, Khaleel noted that the projects are designed to address infrastructure and community-level needs and are expected to deliver social and economic benefits over the long term. He added that the partnership further reflects the ongoing cooperation between the Maldives and India.
Minister Ameen stated that the government is continuing efforts to establish a high-speed ferry service that links 81 islands across nine atolls. He said the new projects supported under the current MoU would contribute to the enhancement of the RTL system and bilateral collaboration.
The third phase of the High Impact Community Development Scheme was announced during President Mohamed Muizzu’s visit to India in October 2024.
The RTL system was initiated by the previous administration as part of the Integrated National Public Ferry Network, a three-phase national connectivity programme. The system currently offers high-speed ferry services to several regions and remains one of the larger transport infrastructure projects under implementation.
Minister Ameen recently addressed Parliament regarding ongoing efforts to improve the RTL network. He stated that although the government is committed to enhancing services, the process has faced delays, primarily due to difficulties in acquiring and constructing the necessary vessels.
