The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) is implementing extensive fire prevention and disaster resilience initiatives at its three sugar mills in response to a fire incident at the Rarawai Mill earlier this year. Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh described the event as “a moment of reckoning for the industry,” prompting a thorough review of current safety systems.
Speaking in Parliament, Mr. Singh emphasized the necessity of modernizing the mills, which are known to operate on infrastructures that are over 140 years old. He pointed out that many existing technologies are outdated, raising serious safety concerns. Among the new measures introduced are a comprehensive risk management approach, routine hazard assessments, and enhanced fire safety protocols, including stricter hot-work permit controls and annual inspections conducted in collaboration with the National Fire Authority.
These improvements are part of FSC’s commitment to fostering a safer operational environment. The Minister announced the implementation of site-specific contingency plans for each mill to enhance emergency responses and ensure that staff undergo regular fire drills and training to prepare for potential incidents.
While some opposition members expressed concerns regarding the Ministry’s handling of safety protocols during the Rarawai fire, Mr. Singh reiterated that maintenance teams are actively addressing both the infrastructure and machinery at the mills. He assured that the upgraded sugar mill facilities would be “stronger, safer, smarter, and more resilient.”
This re-evaluation of internal processes comes not only in response to the fire but also amid ongoing challenges faced by the Rarawai Mill, which has historically suffered from mechanical issues. These operational disruptions have highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive safety protocols and investment to enhance and modernize the existing infrastructure.
Stakeholders remain cautiously optimistic, as the FSC and the government demonstrate a strong commitment to enhancing the sugar industry’s resilience and sustainability, recognizing its vital role in the economy and the livelihoods of local communities. By diligently addressing these challenges and improving operational practices, the FSC aims to cultivate a safer, more productive future for Fiji’s sugar sector. This collective effort is essential for restoring confidence in an industry that is not only crucial for the nation’s economy but also supports the well-being of many families and communities across the country.