The Fiji Sugar Corporation says there has been no effluent discharge from the Labasa Mill into the Qawa River during the current crushing season, as authorities investigate concerns over the condition of the river.
In a statement, FSC management said it was aware of concerns raised by residents about odour, dead fish and changes in the appearance of the Qawa River near the Labasa Mill.
“FSC can confirm that there has been no effluent discharge from the Labasa Mill into the Qawa River during the current crushing season to date,” the corporation said.
FSC said it took the concerns seriously and remained committed to complying with its Waste Disposal Permit and other environmental approvals issued by the Department of Environment.
According to the corporation, the Labasa Mill has environmental control measures and standard operating procedures covering the monitoring, sampling and management of factory discharges.
It said the mill’s effluent treatment system remained operational, with wastewater undergoing required treatment, conditioning and monitoring.
Sampling and testing were also conducted routinely, with samples submitted to accredited laboratories for independent analysis.
Following concerns raised about the river, officers from the Department of Environment inspected the area and collected samples for analysis.
“FSC has fully cooperated with the Department and is awaiting its findings,” the statement said.
FSC said there was currently no evidence establishing a link between the reported condition of the river and operations at the Labasa Mill.
The corporation said conclusions about the cause should therefore await the findings of the Department of Environment.
FSC also said the affected section of the river had since returned to its usual green appearance.
The corporation said it would continue environmental monitoring and work with the Department of Environment on any further assessments or recommendations.
“FSC remains committed to responsible mill operations, environmental compliance and protecting the environment in the communities in which it operates,” the statement said.
