Farmers are worried that any further increase in fuel prices could leave them with no income, as rising transportation and harvesting costs continue to put pressure on their ability to earn a living and support their families.
Rakiraki farmer Divnesh Goundar says the continued increase in fuel prices is already affecting businesses and could have serious consequences for the agricultural sector if costs continue to rise.
The farmer says diesel is essential for transportation and farm operations, and any increase in fuel prices eventually leads to higher transport costs.
Goundar says there are concerns that lorry operators may increase their charges due to rising fuel costs, placing an even greater burden on farmers who already face high production costs.
He says government subsidies have helped in the past, but if additional costs are passed on to farmers, some may struggle to continue harvesting and selling their sugarcane.
Goundar shares many farmers depend on farming to provide for their families, and rising costs could reduce the amount of cane harvested and transported to the mills.
The farmer is calling on the government and relevant authorities to consider further support measures for farmers.
He says if diesel prices continue to rise and transportation costs become unaffordable, many farmers may no longer have the confidence or financial means to harvest and sell their crops.
