MTCC Says Ferry Operations in Zone 1 Under The Integrated National Public Ferry Network Will Commence in November.

The Integrated National Public Ferry Network is a holistic solution to the transport needs of the islanders across the Maldives. Designed to provide reliable, efficient, affordable, convenient, and sustainable passenger ferry services, the vessels built for the operations are equipped with modern facilities and can be accessible for differently-abled passengers as well.  
 
Maldives Transport and Contracting Company was handed the responsibility of the program by the government in January 2021. MTCC outsourced the design and build of the boats to seasoned professionals in the industry, Gulf Craft.  
 
On Sunday, MTCC stated that operation in Zone 1 is scheduled to commence in November. Whilst 17 ferries will be used for transfers in this zone, physical works on ferry terminals and ferry stops are currently underway. Gulf Craft has completed the first 0f 17 boats, and it has been handed over to MTCC for testing now.  
 
CEO of MTCC, Adam Azim revealed that the ferry network will come alive in Zone 1 with 6 ferries in operation. Since the first ferry has completed the production phase, the build of more ferries will start once the testing is complete and approved. MTCC hopes to bring the operation of the ferry network to full capacity by February 2022.  
 
A delegation consisting of Minister of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, Ahmed Aslam, Minister of President’s Office, Ali Shiyam, Deputy Minister of Maldives Transport and Civil Aviation, Ahmed Abdul Ghani, and members of the Ministerial Steering Committee for the Integrated National Public Ferry Network visited the Gulf Craft Boat Yard on Sunday.