CSIR-CIMFR Achieves Breakthrough with India’s First Trial of Dozer Push Mining Method

Bhubaneswar: In a landmark development for the Indian mining sector, the CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR) has successfully conducted India’s first trial blast using the Dozer Push Mining Method, integrating advanced digital technologies. The trial was carried out at the PEKB (Parsa East and Kanta Basan) Coal Mine, operated by M/s Adani Enterprises Limited in the Udaipur block of Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh.

The innovative method, developed under a CSIR-CIMFR-sponsored project, is poised to revolutionize mining operations with a focus on safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The trial featured 108 automated drill holes and utilized 60 tons of bulk emulsion explosives, followed by material movement using specially designed large-sized automated dozers.

The Dozer Push Mining Method represents a significant advancement over traditional techniques like truck-shovel or dragline methods. By employing unmanned, automated machinery, this approach ensures:

• Enhanced Safety: Minimizing risks associated with manual labor.
• Operational Efficiency: Faster coal recovery and uninterrupted operations, even during adverse weather.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Estimated operational cost reduction of 7-10%.
• Productivity Gains: Better utilization of dragline machines and reduced unit costs.

The technology, tailored specifically for Indian mining conditions after two years of rigorous study, prioritizes environmental considerations by maintaining safe levels of vibration and flyrock during blasting.

The trial was overseen by Prof. Arvind Kumar Mishra, Director of CSIR-CIMFR, along with a dedicated scientific and technical team comprising Dr. Murari P. Roy, Dr. Vivek K. Himanshu, R. S. Yadav, Suraj Kumar, and Dr. Ashish K. Vishwakarma. The successful demonstration of drilling, precise detonation, and automated material movement marked a milestone in the project.

Following the initial success, the second phase will involve 8-10 additional trial blasts to refine the design further. Final recommendations will aim to optimize the method for broader implementation across Indian coal mines.

The Dozer Push Mining Method signifies a transformative leap for the Indian mining industry, showcasing the potential of cutting-edge technologies to create safer, more efficient, and cost-effective practices. This breakthrough underscores India’s capability to innovate and set new benchmarks in mining globally.