Cane Supply Consistency Maintained at Labasa Mill

SITERI TALEITAKI
LABASA

The Labasa Sugar Mill manager, Karia Christopher, has confirmed farmers in the North have been working hard around the clock to ensure the consistency of cane supply to the mill.
He further indicated the mill was performing well and there were no breakdowns experienced so far as all operations were running smoothly in all areas.
Cane farmers in all areas in Labasa have been noted to be working hard to ensure that all cane is transported to the mills on time.
Mr Christopher said: “The results in all levels are positive and they are only to sort out minor issues in different sectors.
“The cane supply to mill has been improved which is a plus to the cane farmers.”
Mr Christopher confirmed the mill is looking at crushing 200,000 tonnes for the first shipment this year.
He gave the credit to cane farmers for their hardwork in supplying cane to the mill without any delays.
Meanwhile, Tui Macuata Ratu Wiliame Katonivere has called upon the lorry owners to work together during this crushing season.
“Lorry owners, truck driver must assist farmers with their canes and support FSC,” he said.
Ratu Wiliame urged the lorry drivers to remain positive this crushing season as everyone will benefit from it.
Lorry drivers were seen waiting in a long line outside the Labasa Mill to unload their canes.
Ramesh Kapoor of Waiqele, Labasa said they deliver cane to the mill every day.
“We are here every day. Yesterday I was here at 10am and went home after midnight.
“Lorry drivers and cane farmers are always helping other farmers with delivery to ensure the consistency of cane supply to the mill, “he said.
“We are there for each other because we know this is important, not only because of the income we earn but the supply of sugar.”

Cane access roads
Cane farmer Naveen Chand said cane access roads and their maintenance remains one of the biggest problems for cane farmers in the North.
Mr Prasad, whose tractor was stuck at the cane access road in Wailevu, said the road had gotten much worse than before.
“I was on my way to the mill this morning yesterday and now this has happened, the tractor is stuck and I don’t know how long it will take to get out,” he said.
Mr Prasad further said he would again line up at the mill probably for the night.
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