Mahendra Chaudhry, the leader of the Fiji Labour Party and general secretary of the National Farmers Union (NFU), recently took the initiative to meet with cane lorry drivers near the Lautoka Mill, highlighting the grave issues currently faced by farmers and lorry drivers during this challenging sugarcane crushing season. His outreach, shared through a social media post, underscores the stark realities of the farming community’s struggles, particularly in the wake of significant disruptions affecting the industry.
During his visit, Chaudhry shared tea and bread with drivers who often endure long wait times of 12 to 36 hours to unload their cane. He stated, “These men are worn out,” emphasizing the urgent need for support as many drivers face extended periods without essential provisions. The NFU has taken steps to alleviate these hardships by providing light breakfasts and evening meals at a tent established near the mill.
Chaudhry noted that the initiative was a collaborative effort with the Cane Lorry Drivers Associations of Ba and Lautoka. This partnership was particularly timely following the temporary closure of the fire-damaged Rarawai Mill, which has further strained operations at Lautoka, creating considerable pressure on drivers and farmers alike. He expressed frustration with the Fiji Sugar Corporation, the Ministry of Sugar, and the Cane Growers Council, arguing they have failed to address the pressing needs of the agricultural sector.
Echoing concerns raised in recent discussions, Chaudhry’s sentiment reflects the ongoing operational challenges at the Lautoka Sugar Mill, which has endured multiple shutdowns due to inefficiencies that have led to significant losses for local farmers. Previous articles have also noted these critical issues, specifically the mill’s struggles with production rates and accountability amidst calls for sector-wide reforms.
Despite these hurdles, there remains a strong spirit of resilience among farmers advocating for much-needed change within the sugar industry. As stakeholders engage in meaningful dialogue, there is hope for a more collaborative approach that could lead to essential improvements in operational efficiencies and better support for the farmer community. This situation serves as a potent reminder of the importance of proactive measures in revitalizing Fiji’s sugar sector and safeguarding the livelihoods of those who depend on it.
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