Hindustan Zinc Limited has introduced an advanced tele-remote drilling system at its Rajpura Dariba mine in Rajasthan, marking a significant step in its journey toward fully automated and digitally enabled underground mining operations. The deployment underscores the company’s commitment to improving operational efficiency, worker safety, and productivity through cutting-edge technology.
The tele-remote system allows engineers to control drilling equipment from the surface in real time, eliminating the need for physical presence in hazardous underground environments. Currently operational across a range of 600 meters and scalable up to 800 meters, the system achieves drilling speeds of approximately 60 meters per hour.
Supported by robust wireless connectivity, the technology enables uninterrupted drilling across shifts, significantly enhancing equipment utilization. The implementation has resulted in an overall productivity improvement of around 17%, reflecting tangible gains in operational performance. This technology has already demonstrated success at the company’s Sindesar Khurd and Rampura Agucha mines, where it contributed to improved safety standards, higher equipment efficiency, and increased production output.
Arun Misra, CEO and Whole-Time Director of Hindustan Zinc, stated that the deployment reflects the company’s focus on building intelligent, future-ready mining systems powered by automation and digital innovation. He highlighted that integrating advanced technologies is central to enhancing reliability, sustainability, and performance across operations.
Hindustan Zinc continues to lead technological transformation in the metals and mining sector. The company is currently collaborating with over 20 technology startups on more than 50 projects through its innovation platform, V Spark Deeptech Ventures. These initiatives span production optimization, cost efficiency, ESG leadership, and enhanced safety practices.
The company has integrated technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) into its operations. Recent advancements include AI-powered surveillance systems that have reduced manual intervention by nearly 50% and robotic automation in high-temperature smelting processes, improving precision and consistency.
Looking ahead, Hindustan Zinc plans to deploy LiDAR-enabled drone-based stope scanning to further enhance underground mapping accuracy and optimize extraction planning. Through sustained investment in innovation and digital transformation, Hindustan Zinc is redefining operational excellence in mining while setting new benchmarks for safety, sustainability, and technological leadership in the industry.
