Vedanta Aluminium Deploys AI-Powered Drones to Elevate Mine Safety Standards

Vedanta Aluminium, India's largest aluminium producer, has rolled out an AI-based drone solution to improve blasting clearance and danger zone surveillance at its Jamkhani coal mine in Odisha. This project, created in partnership with Vedanta's Spark program, combines cutting-edge technologies to drive enhanced safety, operational effectiveness, and real-time tracking in mining operations.

The drone, powered by artificial intelligence and advanced software, offers real-time aerial monitoring, automatically detecting human, animal, and vehicle movement within a 500-meter blasting radius. By live streaming, it allows officials to monitor operations remotely and receive automatic alerts in the event of unauthorized movement. The drone also facilitates smooth audio communication among officials, the drone pilot, and blasting officers, allowing for accurate coordination.

Its artificial intelligence-powered functionalities enable immediate blind spot detection beyond ground surveillance coverage. When any anomaly or intrusion is detected, the system generates real-time alarms, allowing rapid response to prevent possible threats.

Jamkhani coal mine, Vedanta’s first greenfield coal mine in Odisha, plays a crucial role in supplying fuel to Vedanta’s Jharsuguda plant, one of the world’s largest aluminium smelters.

Enhancing Mine Safety with AI

“The integration of AI-powered drones in our mining operations underscores our commitment to safety and digital transformation,” said Sunil Gupta, COO, Vedanta Aluminium. “This initiative enhances situational awareness, ensuring a safer working environment.”

David Stone, CEO of Coal Mines, added, “The deployment of this technology sets a new benchmark for mine safety, providing comprehensive surveillance and instant communication to mitigate potential hazards.”

The AI-powered drone initiative aligns with Vedanta Aluminium’s broader strategy of driving digital transformation through AI, robotics, IoT, and smart safety solutions.

Amitesh Sinha, Vice President & Head – CVC & Spark, underscored the role of corporate-startup collaborations, stating, “Our partnership with Skylark Drones and the Vedanta Mines team reflects our focus on safety innovation. The Spark program is actively working with 70+ startups, deploying 100+ projects to integrate AI and digital solutions into manufacturing.”

Beyond technological advancements, Vedanta Aluminium remains committed to Odisha’s socio-economic growth, with ongoing initiatives in education, healthcare, sustainable livelihoods, and rural infrastructure development.

As India’s largest aluminium producer, Vedanta Aluminium manufactured 2.37 million tonnes in FY2024, supplying critical industries and reinforcing its leadership in sustainable mining and digital innovation. The company ranks 2nd globally in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024 for the aluminium industry, reaffirming its commitment to responsible mining and a greener future.