In a move to support sugarcane farmers, the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, Hon. Charan Jeath Singh, has directed the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) to immediately reactivate the railway line from Lausa Loop to Tawatawa Point in Tavua.
The decision addresses longstanding transportation challenges faced by farmers following the closure of the rail line, which had hindered their ability to deliver cane to the Rarawai Mill.
The announcement comes after community consultations led by the Ministry, where over 40 farmers from Drumasi, Yaladro, and Tagitagi voiced concerns about the rail closure’s impact on their livelihoods.
The closure forced farmers to rely on costly and less efficient truck transport, disrupting their operations and adding financial strain.
“We worked late into the night yesterday (Monday) to ensure our farmers’ needs were addressed without further delay. We are already in the third week of harvesting, and time is of the essence,” said Minister Singh.
“This decision reflects the Ministry’s strong commitment to our cane farmers. Reactivating rail services in Tavua will help restore efficient and cost-effective cane delivery to the Rarawai Mill and support the long-term sustainability of the sugar industry in this region.”
Mr Singh encouraged farmers to continue using trucks where feasible to maintain harvesting operations without interruption.
The reactivation of the railway is expected to significantly reduce transportation costs and improve access to the Rarawai Mill, bolstering the livelihoods of sugarcane farmers in the region.
