The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) locomotive drivers are under scrutiny for alleged misuse of their positions. Reports suggest that some drivers have been consuming kava during work hours. This issue was raised by farmers from the Wainikoro Sector in Labasa to the Minister for Sugar and Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Charan Jeath Singh. Singh stated that such behavior is unacceptable and that both his ministry and the FSC will not permit any misuse of office.
Farmers have expressed concerns that kava consumption may have caused delays in train trips transporting sugarcane to Wainikoro. The ministry is also investigating a recent fatal accident that took place at Lausa, Tavua. Singh is awaiting feedback from the FSC regarding the incident.
To enhance monitoring of locomotive drivers, Singh has recommended the installation of Global Positioning System (GPS) devices in the locomotives. He emphasized that this measure aims to track the whereabouts of both drivers and locomotives in real time, ensuring timely transportation of sugarcane from remote farms to the mill for production.