Goundar Considers Closing Business Because Of Numerous Complaints

George Goundar says he has grown tired of hearing complaints that he sometimes consider closing his business.

The Goundar Shipping Limited managing director said everybody wants service, but no one was willing to pay.

His comments surfaced when some business people requested if he could include his service to Taveuni Island.

For three months the company has been serving the Taveuni route only on Saturdays. Previously it was two trips in a week, on Wednesday and Saturday.

Among them is Taveuni Kava and Dalo dealers owner, Krishna Reddy who has been exporting taro to New Zealand.

“We are requesting Government to help us because there are many farmers and exporters who want to get their produce transported to Viti Levu on time,” Mr Reddy said.

“We are not blaming the shipping company; what I am saying is that agriculture will be affected and this is something that we must look into.”

He said for the past few months, buyers have been complaining about the poor quality of taro because they are not able to supply on schedule.

Mr Goundar explained with the increasing fuel cost now it cost the company about $70,000 from Suva-Savusavu-Taveuni-Suva.

“If anyone is willing to pay for a private run, I can provide service,” Mr Goundar said.

“Anyone who has an issue should reach out to the Government or responsible ministers.” He was upset to find that people consider their business but not about his pocket for him to provide the service."

“I am really sick and tired of people complaining,” he said.

“Last two years it cost about a dollar for fuel and now it’s above $3.”

He said air fare, bus fare and everything went up except shipping service.

“During COVID-19 we provided shipping service and yet we are forgotten,” he said.

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