Tramline services remain critical for many growers supplying Lautoka mill, says Sugar Cane Growers Council CEO Vimal Dutt.
During a press conference in Lautoka this week, he said the council looked forward to the reopening of the Tavua tramline network at the earliest opportunity.
“The sooner this service resumes, the better it will be for affected growers, particularly growers in the Dramasi sector who have been patiently awaiting access to this important transport network,” he said.
“The council has formally written to the Sugar Industry Tribunal requesting the uplifting of the temporary closure order issued on July 2, 2025, for a period of one year.”
He said for growers, rail transport was not just an infrastructure as it represented affordability, accessibility, and reliability.
“It is a ready-made solution that supports efficient cane delivery and reduces financial pressure on growers.”
Meanwhile, Mr Dutt said harvested cane was currently being transferred to the Rarawai mill from the Lautoka mill area.
“I understand there is a compensation sum that is being paid to the lorry operators in that regard.
“And all the cane that is currently harvested in the Lautoka mill area, which is Sigatoka, Nadi and Lautoka, is transferred to Rarawai mill.
“I think it’s a temporary arrangement and should normalise when the harvesting momentum improves.”
