The Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry service began in Laamu atoll on Tuesday, increasing the country’s public transport network to 15 atolls.

The service was launched by Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim during a ceremony conducted in L. Fonadhoo. The event saw attendance from the Indian Deputy High Commissioner to the Maldives Kumar Gaurav, MPs from Laamu constituencies, leaders of island councils, and senior MTCC officials, such as Chairman Mohamed Afeef Hussain and Deputy Managing Director Mohamed Jamsheed.

According to the RTL rollout policy, Laamu atoll residents will enjoy one week of complimentary travel as introductory trips. The complimentary period will last from Wednesday to Tuesday, following which ticketed services will commence.

The Ministry of Transport reports that with Laamu's addition, the total count of atolls offering operational RTL services is now 15. Launched in 2022, the project seeks to split the nation into six transport zones and link all populated islands via regular ferry services.

RTL services have not been introduced in Meemu, Kaafu, Alifu Alifu, Alifu Dhaalu, and Vaavu atolls yet. The government states that efforts continue to extend the network to the other regions.

Nevertheless, in multiple atolls where the service has commenced, the frequency of cancelled ferry trips has risen, causing worries about operational reliability.

MTCC announced that Laamu atoll will be accessible through two routes, urging residents to take advantage of the complimentary trial period.