In the next 5-10 years, atomic minerals are going to keep the pace and demand.

Bhavesh Dholu, Director, P C Patel Infra

How do you view the current state of the mining sector, particularly in the context of demand for key minerals?

Mining is a sector which is always going to keep on running. Without mining, no industry is going to run. So, the demand for mining is always going to be high.

What are the major growth opportunities in the mining sector over the next 5–10 years?

In the next 5-10 years, atomic minerals are going to keep the pace and demand. Coal mining is already on its peak. So, in the next 5 – 10 years, atomic and seabed minerals are going to be in the huge demand.

How are new technologies such as automation, IoT, and AI transforming mining operations?

IoT and smart mining is already in our trail phase for implementation by us and we have been monitoring our operations with the help of these technologies. On AI, we had conducted a research and study and we has also exhibited wherein unmanned machines like trucks are used in our operations. These trucks are managing operations like loading and unloading. But for these technologies, we need 5G technologies near the mining space.

How do you look at the training and skilling initiatives in your operations? 

Training is imparted to every single person in our staff. Today, Smartphone is handy with everyone and so it is very easy for everyone to adopt any new training imparted to anyone – whether the person is educated or not, mobile has taught everyone how to learn things.

How is your company addressing the increasing focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility in mining operations? What initiatives have you undertaken to reduce carbon emissions, minimize waste, and promote energy-efficient mining processes?

To control and handle the emission norms, we have already implemented trials of our electric machines in the mining operations. Euro VI is already there. We will be using
electric operated trucks and excavators. Parallelly, we are also in talks with L&T for Hydrogen machines. In mining, if we have readily available equipment, then the operation process is very fast. We always buy equipment whenever a new machine is available. Diesel is expensive compared to the newer technologies.

What are your company’s investment and expansion plan in the mining sector over the coming years?

We are doing a lot of work in coal and lignite mineral mining. We are also workout our strategies on other minerals.

What kind of machines do you have with you for your mining operations?

We have 100-Ton, 60-Ton Dumpers and 3-cubic meter as well as 6.5 cubic meter excavators. We also have Volvo’s dumpers. We also have dozers and graders with us.

What are the key challenges the mining industry faces today, particularly in terms of regulatory hurdles, infrastructure, and environmental concerns and how is your company tackling these challenges to ensure long-term growth and sustainability?

Clearance for mining and land are going to the key concerns. There are no challenges in doing mining. Now the government has come out with policies because of which the clearances are happening faster and smoother.