More than 2000 passengers sought mini bus service during the first 24-hours since commencement, revealed Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC),
The minibuses will operate on three routes in the city– the Ameenee route, the Sosun route, and the Orchid route. The bus service will be available from 5:45 am to 12:15 pm every day of the week. A total of 40 bus stops have been established on the bus routes, and buses will approach each stop every 15 minutes.
Eighteen buses are used to provide bus services in the city, eight of which have ramps and wheelchair access for people with disabilities. Raajje Transport Link(RTL) mini buses fare is MVR 7.
However, the first two weeks will be a trial round, with commuters allowed to travel on the bus for free.
Once the two-week trial period is up, commuters will need to book QR tickets via RTL’s website or mobile app – RTL Travel.
RTL Travel app is available for free download from AppStore and PlayStore.
Its noteworthy that children under the age of three, students in uniform, and those over 65 can travel free of charge on the minibus. This is with the condition that they have to show their national ID cards, while people with disabilities will need to show National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) card.
RTL ferry services:
MTCC’s Rajje Transport Link (RTL) services include RTL ferry services and RTL bus services. The RTL ferry service was first launched in Haa Dhaal atoll. The service was later expanded to include Haa Alif atoll. Shaviyani atoll is the third atoll where RTL ferry services have been introduced.
Lack of public transport within Male has been a long due issue. Both ferry and bus services under RTL is looking promising in its venture to ease transportation for the public.
Also, another good initiation is that the Maldives Police Service has warned vehicles parked illegally and in the way of the minibuses on Male’ City roads will be towed. Police stated that violation stickers will be given to vehicles parked in the way of bus routes and other banned areas.
Congestion and traffic issues in Male’ began due to the fact that there was a big gap in availing public transport system, which compelled people to get their own vehicles. It would be great if people could use their private vehicles less often and also for the government to look for ways to provide better parking options for the public.
The launch of minibus services in the city is one of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s presidential pledges.
