Ba sugarcane farmer Arvind Singh is urging the Government to construct a modern sugar mill in Viti Levu to address the recurring breakdowns of the mills in Lautoka and Ba.
The frequent malfunctions of Ba’s Rarawai mill have caused over 100 lorry drivers to be stranded outside the facility since last week.
“As a farmer, I’m extremely concerned about the sugar mill. This isn’t a new problem; it’s been an ongoing issue for years,” Singh said.
“When the crushing season begins, the mill breaks down. The Government and the minister need to seriously consider building a new mill as a permanent solution.”
“A new modern mill would resolve this issue indefinitely.”
“This old mill is patched up annually, but it cannot survive for much longer.”
Singh believes that repairing the aging mill is a waste of money.
“We’re wasting millions of dollars on patching and repairs. It’s more economical to build a modern mill.”
“One modern mill in Viti Levu would suffice, and the other outdated mills should be closed.”
“There’s a substantial amount of sugarcane in Ba, Tavua, and Rakiraki. However, in areas like Sigatoka, Nadi, and Lautoka, sugarcane production is decreasing each year.”
“All stakeholders need to collaborate to ensure the sugar industry thrives.”
“This is the only way farmers can sustain their livelihoods, and lorry drivers won’t have to wait for days outside the mill.”
Questions sent to Fiji Sugar Corporation CEO Bhan Pratap Singh remain unanswered.