All students at Thuan Mau Primary School in the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak have resorted to wearing gauze masks in class due to air pollution.

Students at Thuan Mau Primary School have to wear gauze masks in class

The pollution comes from a nearby quarry operated by Tan Thanh Dat Construction, Trading and Service Company. The problem has also affected nearly 300 local households for many years.

The mine began operation in 2007, and has plagued locals ever since. The situation gets worse when stone grinding begins at the quarry. Many people complain that the noise makes sleep impossible, and sometimes it continues throughout the night. One local resident, said that the dust makes it necessary to clean several times a day.

The households have petitioned local authorities many times, but the situation has not improved. In fact the quarry has only expanded and added to their operation.

Some families have even had to seek shelter elsewhere