Zinc Goes Digital: The Automation Revolution at Rajpura Dariba

Hindustan Zinc has deployed an advanced tele-remote drilling system at its Rajpura Dariba mine in Rajasthan, marking a major step in its transition toward digitally enabled and automated underground mining operations.

The system allows engineers to operate drilling equipment remotely from the surface with real-time precision, significantly improving safety and operational efficiency. Designed to function effectively over distances of up to 600 metres—and scalable to 800 metres—it delivers drilling speeds of around 60 metres per hour. Backed by strong wireless connectivity, the technology enables uninterrupted operations across shifts and is estimated to boost productivity by about 17 percent.

This rollout builds on the successful adoption of similar systems at Hindustan Zinc’s Sindesar Khurd and Rampura Agucha mines, where it has already enhanced safety, equipment utilisation, and overall efficiency. Looking ahead, the company plans to introduce LiDAR-enabled, drone-based stope scanning to further improve underground mapping and optimise extraction planning, reinforcing its focus on innovation-driven mining.

Commenting on the development, Arun Misra said the deployment reflects the company’s commitment to building intelligent, future-ready mining systems powered by automation and digital technologies. He added that integrating advanced solutions across operations is helping improve performance, reliability, and sustainability while setting new benchmarks for the mining industry in India.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.