Over 2,000 passengers seek minibus service on first day

Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), on Tuesday, revealed that over 2,000 passengers sought minibus service on the first day it was launched in Male’ City, as part of Raajje Transport Link (RTL).

Minibus service officially commenced in Male’ City on Monday.

The service provider, MTCC, said that a total of 2,257 passengers sought the service during the first 24-hours since commencement.

Whilst the bust travel on three routes; 621 passengers traveled from Orchid route, 754 passengers traveled from Sosun route and 882 people traveled from Ameenee route.

RTL mini buses will travel in 10–15-minute intervals from 05:45 hours to 00:15 hours. The bus 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.

The mini bus service is free for school students in uniform, people above the age of 65 years, children under the age of three years, and people with disabilities. 

People above the age of 65 years and children under the age of three years will need to show their national ID cards, while people with disabilities will need to show National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) card.

The lack of proper public transport system within Male’ has been a years-long issue facing the congested capital, forcing people to get their own vehicles – further escalating congestion and traffic issues in the city.

Many experts believe the solution lies in a good public transport system.

A bus service was launched in Male’ City during former President Mohamed Nasheed’s administration. However, the service ceased within a short period of time.