Recent severe weather events, including floods and cyclones, have severely damaged cane access roads in Fiji, with a reported 78 Irish crossings destroyed in cane belt areas. Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh has announced that immediate maintenance and upgrades to these roads will begin this week in preparation for the upcoming 2025 sugarcane harvesting and crushing season set to start in mid-June.
The integrity of cane access roads is critical, as they facilitate the harvesting and transportation of sugar, thereby reducing logistical challenges for farmers. Singh explained that maintenance activities are typically paused during the rainy season from November to April to avoid compromising new upgrades against adverse weather. Consequently, work is set to commence in May, right before the crushing season.
The Minister also mentioned that contractors for all 38 cane-growing sectors have been selected following a competitive tender process, with contracts currently being finalized. This initiative aims to enhance over 4,000 kilometers of cane access roads, repair damaged crossings, and install new culverts. Since 2012, the government has invested $41.4 million in this infrastructure, with an additional $4 million allocated for the current financial year.
These efforts echo similar concerns raised by farmers in regions like Korotari, where they have reported significant deterioration in road conditions ahead of the sugarcane crushing season. The overarching narrative points to the need for robust infrastructure improvements, which are vital not only for the sugar industry’s productivity but also for the broader economic stability of agricultural communities.
The situation indicates a commitment from the government to address these pressing issues, suggesting a pathway towards improved efficiency in the sugar sector. The positive outlook stems from favorable weather conditions for this year’s crop, which is promising, coupled with proactive infrastructure developments aimed at supporting local farmers. With these developments, there is hope for a more sustainable and productive sugar industry in Fiji.
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