Maldives Transport and Contracting Company MTCC has commenced minibus services in Male' as the government looks to revolutionalize the public transport system in the capital city.
MTCC began the bus services in Male' earlier today and said that the first two weeks would be a trial period for the buses.
It said that during the trial period the bus rides would be free of charge but once it becomes completely operational, it would charge MVR 7 per person.
However, MTCC said that students in uniform as well as adults above 65 years of age, children below 3 years, and individuals with disabilities would not be charged for bus rides.
MTCC said that the buses would travel on three routes within Male and that these routes were the Ameenee Route, Sosun Route, and Orchid Route. The Company further said that a total of 40 bus stops have been built for all three routes.
MTCC said while the bus services would cover all four wards in Male', buses would arrive at the stops every 10 to 15 minutes.
The company said that passengers can board the buses from 5:45 am and that they would run till 12:15 am.
MTCC said that it would utilize 18 buses for its minibus services and that 8 of those buses are fitted with ramps and railings that would make it easier for those with wheelchairs to board the vehicles.
It said that these buses have 20 passenger seats while those buses without railings and ramps would have 22 passenger seats. MTCC said that these buses can also carry 10 standing passengers.
