Hindustan Zinc, the world’s largest integrated zinc producer and India’s only major zinc producer, has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Epiroc, marking a significant step in improving safety and operational efficiency at its mines. This collaboration will see the phased implementation of Epiroc’s Collision Avoidance System, starting at the Sindesar Khurd Mine in Rajasthan’s Rajsamand district, one of the top five silver-producing mines globally. The system will be progressively rolled out across Hindustan Zinc’s entire network of underground mines.
In the initial phase, the system will be integrated into 30 Low Profile Dump Trucks (LPDTs), which are key vehicles used for handling ore in underground mining operations. These trucks will be equipped with a cutting-edge safety solution that utilizes real-time digital alerts, both visual and audible, to heighten operator awareness and improve risk management by detecting nearby vehicles and personnel.
The project takes advantage of advanced digital technology by integrating proximity sensors, operator display units, and wearable personal tags, all connected to a centralized platform. This setup ensures continuous data collection and analysis, supporting safety audits, regulatory compliance, and informed decision-making. The Collision Avoidance System, designed with the highest safety standards in mind, is modular and easily integrates with existing machinery. It offers a multi-layered approach to safety, including early warnings, operator alerts, and autonomous interventions that help mitigate collision risks, improve operational efficiency, and prioritize worker safety.
Arun Misra, CEO and Whole-time Director of Hindustan Zinc, commented, “Zinc, lead, and silver are essential metals for clean energy technologies, and as the world’s largest integrated zinc producer, we are committed to digital innovations that boost safety and productivity. The deployment of Epiroc’s Collision Avoidance System in our mines reflects our dedication to operational excellence and technological leadership, ensuring safe, sustainable, and intelligent mining solutions.”
Helena Hedblom, President and CEO of Epiroc AB, noted, “Our partnership with Hindustan Zinc is a milestone in the evolution of mining safety technology. The Collision Avoidance System demonstrates the power of digital innovation to reduce risks proactively, providing intelligent sensing, real-time alerts, and autonomous vehicle control. We are proud to collaborate with Hindustan Zinc in delivering a scalable solution that ensures the safety of personnel while enhancing operational efficiency, setting a new global standard for underground mining safety.”
The project will unfold in two phases: Phase 1 will involve the installation, calibration, operator training, and ongoing maintenance of the system on the 30 LPDTs at the Sindesar Khurd Mine. In Phase 2, the Collision Avoidance System will be expanded to Hindustan Zinc’s entire underground fleet, standardizing safety protocols across all operations in Rajasthan.
This initiative aligns with Hindustan Zinc’s strong commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. The company has been recognized as the world’s most sustainable in the metals and mining sector for the second consecutive year in the 2024 S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment and became the first Indian company to join the International Council on Mining & Metals (ICMM) in 2025.
With over 50 years of experience in the metals and mining industry, Hindustan Zinc continues to integrate innovative solutions like automation, remote operations, and precision monitoring, further advancing its mission to create a safer, smarter, and more sustainable mining industry.
Hindustan Zinc has been recognized as the most sustainable company in the metals and mining sector by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment for two consecutive years. The company has also become the first Indian company to join the International Council on Mining & Metals (ICMM). Hindustan Zinc’s innovative green initiatives include EcoZen, Asia’s first low-carbon zinc brand, and its efforts to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050. It is also a certified 3.32 times Water-Positive company and is committed to transforming the lives of 2.3 million people through its CSR programs.
