Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen has emphasized the necessity of increasing ticket prices for the high-speed RTL Ferry Services in order to maintain a sustainable operation. Speaking during a session of the Economic Committee of Parliament, Ameen indicated that the government has been bearing a substantial financial burden in subsidies to keep fares affordable for the public.

In his remarks, the Minister highlighted, "The government cannot continue absorbing such high costs in the long term." He pointed out that the subsidies for the RTL Ferry Service have escalated dramatically, from MVR 48 million in its first year to MVR 130 million last year. By the end of this year, the expenditure is projected to reach a staggering MVR 280 million.

Ameen noted that the current model wherein 80 percent of the costs are subsidized while only 20 percent are covered by ticket sales is untenable. "If this continues, the total subsidy could reach MVR 1 billion," he cautioned.

In light of these financial constraints, the government aims to adjust the subsidy levels to 55 percent and increase the recovery level to 40 percent. The Minister also announced his intention to present this matter to the Economic Council for formal pricing adjustments, mentioning that previous fare structures had been established during the tenure of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

Ameen concluded by reaffirming that while the RTL Ferry Service enjoys strong public support, it is crucial to develop a more sustainable financial model for its continued operation.