𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐎𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐞 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐥 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐚𝐯𝐮𝐚

In a major decision aimed at easing transportation challenges for 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.

This announcement follows recent community consultations led by the Ministry, where over 40 affected farmers from Drumasi, Yaladro, and Tagitagi raised concerns about the rail closure, which had significantly impacted their ability to transport cane to the Rarawai Mill.

The directive follows an urgent meeting convened by Permanent Secretary Dr. Vinesh Kumar with the Chief Executive Officer of the Fiji Sugar Corporation and the Chief Executive Officer of the Sugar Cane Growers Council, in close collaboration with the Minister for Finance, Hon. Biman Prasad. In response, Minister Singh moved swiftly to ensure farmers are not burdened with any additional costs or delays.

“We worked late into the night yesterday 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,” He added.

As FSC begins restoration work on the tramlines, farmers are encouraged to continue transporting cane by truck where possible to avoid disruptions to harvesting operations.

The Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry remains committed to working closely with all stakeholders to deliver practical, timely solutions that ensure the long-term viability of the sugar sector — a cornerstone of Fiji’s economy.