The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) locomotive drivers are currently facing scrutiny due to allegations of abuse of office. Reports suggest that some drivers may be consuming kava during their working hours, a concern raised by farmers in the Wainikoro Sector of Labasa.
Minister for Sugar and Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Charan Jeath Singh, has expressed his zero tolerance for FSC employees consuming kava while on duty. He stated that both his ministry and the FSC will not accept such misconduct.
Farmers have indicated that this kava consumption may have caused delays in train trips to Wainikoro for sugarcane transportation. In addition, the ministry is looking into a serious accident that took place in Lausa, Tavua, and Singh is awaiting feedback from the FSC regarding this incident.
To enhance oversight of locomotive drivers, Singh has requested that the FSC implement Global Positioning System (GPS) technology in their locomotives. This system would allow for real-time tracking of both the drivers and the locomotives’ locations. Singh emphasized the importance of ensuring that locomotives arrive at remote farms punctually to maximize the sugarcane yield for processing at the mill.