The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) locomotive drivers are facing scrutiny due to allegations of misconduct. Reports suggest that some drivers are consuming kava during their working hours, a concern raised by farmers in the Wainikoro Sector of Labasa.
Minister for Sugar and Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Charan Jeath Singh, stated that such behavior will not be tolerated within the FSC workforce. “My ministry and FSC will not tolerate such acts of misuse,” he emphasized. Farmers have voiced concerns that some drivers may be delaying their train trips to Wainikoro for sugarcane transport due to kava consumption.
Additionally, the ministry is currently investigating a tragic accident that occurred at Lausa, Tavua, on Wednesday. Mr. Singh is awaiting a formal response from the FSC regarding this incident.
To enhance monitoring of locomotive drivers, Mr. Singh has requested that FSC install Global Positioning System (GPS) devices in locomotives. “This will allow us to track the locations of individuals and locomotives at any given time,” he explained. He stressed the importance of timely trips to ensure that maximum sugarcane is transported to the mill for production.