The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) locomotive drivers are facing scrutiny due to allegations of misconduct. Reports have surfaced that some drivers may be consuming kava during working hours. This issue was highlighted to the Minister for Sugar and Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Charan Jeath Singh, by farmers from the Wainikoro Sector in Labasa.
Minister Singh emphasized that the consumption of kava during work hours is unacceptable and will not be tolerated by either his ministry or the FSC. Farmers have raised concerns that some drivers might have delayed train trips to Wainikoro for transporting sugarcane as a result of kava consumption.
In addition, the Ministry is currently investigating a fatal accident that happened in Lausa, Tavua, on Wednesday, with Singh awaiting a report from the FSC concerning this incident. To enhance oversight of locomotive drivers, Singh has requested the installation of Global Positioning System (GPS) technology in locomotives. This move aims to monitor both the locations of the drivers and the locomotives, ensuring timely access to interior farms and maximizing sugarcane transportation to the mill.