President Muizzu Pledges Nationwide RTL Ferry Coverage by August

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry service is on track to expand its operations across all Maldivian atolls by the end of August. Speaking during his weekly press conference, the President emphasized that the nationwide rollout remains a key government priority aimed at enhancing national connectivity and improving the movement of people and goods between islands. Launched in 2022, the RTL network currently serves 145 islands across 15 atolls. The service most recently expanded into Laamu Atoll last month, marking a significant step toward the government's goal of universal maritime transport coverage. Despite the progress, President Muizzu acknowledged that the project has faced setbacks. He specifically identified Meemu Atoll and Zone 3—which includes Kaafu, Alif Alif, Alif Dhaal, and Vaavu atolls—as the remaining areas awaiting full service. The President attributed these delays to payment lags to contractors, stating that the rollout would have been completed sooner had financial obligations been met on time. “Based on current progress, we expect to cover all remaining atolls by July or August at the latest,” the President said. He further revealed that the government is actively working to acquire additional vessels to increase capacity and reliability in atolls where the service is already operational. The expansion of the RTL is viewed as a critical economic driver for the Maldives. By strengthening inter-island transport and reducing the reliance on fragmented private transport options, the government aims to boost local economic activity and ensure that residents in remote islands have consistent access to essential services in regional hubs.