February 15, 2016
Sugaronline | http://goo.gl/olq33a
At least 95 farmers of Johnson Road, Lautoka are grateful to Fairtrade Sugar Industry for the assistance provided to renovate an existing crossing which would benefit them when cane processing season starts this year, according to the Fiji Sun newspaper.
A total of F$4,500 (US$2,095) was provided by Lautoka Cane Producers Association which falls under the Fairtrade Sugar Industry for the renovation of the bridge.
Lautoka Cane Producers Associations Director for Drasa Sector Lalit Kumar said the farmers would benefit greatly as a result of this community project.
"Almost 9,000 tonnes of cane is produced by farmers from Johnson Road," Kumar said.
"Farmers used to pay an extra F$1 per tonne to transport sugarcane before due to transportation issues but now they would be able to save up that money and spend it on other important things."
He also mentioned the association would continue working with the farmers to encourage them to continue sugarcane farming.
"The association will work closely with the farmers in the communities so the farmers can make the most of the opportunities provided by the association."
For Ramesh Chand, a 48-year-old farmer, this community project will help him in terms of transportation.
"The Drasa Dam Bridge usually gets flooded when it rains heavily during crushing season," Chand said.
"This newly-renovated crossing will now help me supply cane to the Lautoka mill without much difficulty.
"I harvest around 200 tonnes of canes every year from the seven acres of land I have and I am indeed thankful to the Fairtrade Sugar Industry and the Lautoka Cane Producers Association for the help."