VietNamNet Bridge – Authorised agencies from the Central Highland Kon Tum Province's Dak Glei District have not yet succeeded in curbing the illegal gold mining.

Tens of hectares of forest in the Central Highlands province of Kon Tum have been destroyed by gold diggers. (Photo: VNS)

A recent survey of the committee reported the existence of gold deposits in six communes, so illegal mining occured in many places at once, Phan said.

Dak Pet Commune had been confirmed as a hot spot of illegal exploitation in the district, Phan said.

Hundreds of local residents possessed machines to illegally dig and sift gold along Dak Blo stream under a suspension bridge in the commune, reported a Vietnam News Agency correspondent.

There were around 10 holes left by diggers after searching for gold there.

Not only young people but also the elderly, women and children flocked to dig gold instead of farming.

People from other provinces even travelled to Kon Tum to seek gold, said local police officer.

Owners of gold mines paid VND100,000-150,000 (US$4.8-7) per day to every worker, he said.

According to Tran Van Ninh, a principal of Vo Thi Sau Primary School, noises caused by exploration all day and night along the stream near the school negatively affected both teachers and students.

Besides, holes created by gold diggers became deep, wide sinkholes surrounding the school, with the potential to cause landslides, he said.

The provincial People's Committee last week approved a plan that would require aid from the district authority to resolve the situation as soon as possible, Phan said.

A detailed plan was in progress, he said.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News