The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) is investigating allegations against its locomotive drivers for possible abuse of office. Concerns have been raised that some drivers are consuming kava during their working hours. These allegations were brought to the attention of Charan Jeath Singh, the Minister for Sugar and Multi-Ethnic Affairs, by farmers from the Wainikoro Sector in Labasa.
Minister Singh has stated that he will not tolerate any misconduct from FSC workers regarding kava consumption during work. He emphasized that both his ministry and the FSC are committed to addressing such issues. Some farmers have suggested that the consumption of kava may have caused delays in train trips for transporting sugarcane to Wainikoro.
Additionally, the ministry is looking into a recent fatal accident that took place in Lausa, Tavua, and Minister Singh is awaiting feedback from the FSC regarding that incident.
In efforts to improve oversight of locomotive drivers, Minister Singh has requested the installation of Global Positioning System (GPS) devices in locomotives. This will allow for real-time tracking of both drivers and locomotives, ensuring timely deliveries to interior farms for maximum sugarcane production.