The Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF) has issued a strong warning about the recent surge in intentional sugarcane field fires, labeling these actions as both reckless and criminal.
Dr. Vinesh Kumar, the CEO of SRIF, emphasized the significant harm these fires inflict on both farmers and the wider sugarcane industry. He made it clear that staging such fires is a criminal offense that comes with severe penalties. “These fires are not just reckless; they are criminal acts that carry serious consequences,” Dr. Kumar stated.
He also noted that SRIF has experienced considerable losses in vital research data due to these fires. This data, accumulated over months or even years, is crucial for fostering evidence-based innovations in the sugarcane sector.
Dr. Kumar warned that a single act of arson could instantly destroy invaluable research, hindering progress and adversely affecting the industry’s future. He called on the public to recognize the seriousness of the situation, stressing that arson not only threatens farmers’ economic well-being but also endangers the essential scientific research necessary for the industry’s sustainability and growth.
The SRIF has urged the community to remain watchful and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities. “By working together, we can protect our sugarcane fields, preserve vital research, and ensure the continued prosperity of our industry,” he concluded.