We are expecting a 60, 70 or even 80 per cent loss in tonnage of sugar cane production.
This is the reality that sugar cane farmers in the Western Division are facing as a result of the impact of the prolonged dry spell, currently affecting parts of the country.
Dr Sushil Sharma, Manager of Climate Special Services at the Fiji Bureau of Meteorology speaking to Radio Australia said the agricultural community has been bearing the full brunt of it.
Dr Sharma who is a cane farmer himself said all farmers are expecting a huge decline of production in the upcoming months.
Dr Sharma added it is also sad to see that a government initiative that started in May this year has also suffered.
Meanwhile Fiji Canegrower's Association General Secretary Bala Dass said it=s the whole agricultural sector has been severely affected.
Meanwhile Dr Sharma has confirmed that the Drought Steering Committee set up to look into the drought situation will be meeting this morning.
And as people in the Central Division received good rainfall last night and early this morning, the Western and Northern Division remains dry.
Fijivillage received confirmation that there was also slight drizzle in Labasa last night however no sign of rainfall from Sigatoka to Rakiraki.
Nadi Weather office, Duty Forcaster Amit Singh said more afternoon showers is expected for Navua, Suva, Nausori, interior and Eastern parts of the larger islands later today however the North and Western Division will remain dry for another few months.
Story by: Ana Naisoro & Ronal Deo
Feature
Loss expected in tonnage of sugar cane production
