Sindesar Khurd
Overview
Starting in 2006 with a capacity of 0.3 Mtpa this high-grade silver metal mine, Sindesar Khurd, has grown significantly. It’s now one of India’s largest underground mines, known for efficiency and cost-effectiveness, with modern facilities and top-notch equipment. The mine’s deposit has a main lens and multiple standalone auxiliary lenses, creating multiple standalone production centers. The mine has sustained 5.5 Mtpa ore production for the last 5 years and continues to achieve benchmark productivities in Shaft hoisting by achieving 3.66 million tons rock hoisting in FY-25.
To boost mine development and equipment efficiency, we’re training local operators in advanced machinery using AR/VR simulators, targeting a 32 km development goal. The mine has been a pioneer in implementing the automation and digitalization of mining process in India. Tele-remote operations of drill machines and raise-bore machines have substantially improved safety and productivity. The mine has established the life of mine ventilation infrastructure of 2000 m3/sec airflow and air conditioning system for fresh air intake into mine which is another step towards improving working conditions in mine with enhanced safety and productivity.
Key Facts
- Location: Sindesar Khurd, Rajasthan, India
- Mining Type: Underground
- Mining Method: Long hole stoping with Backfilling by Paste-fill method
- Products: Zinc Concentrate and Lead Concentrate
- Certification: ISO 9001:2008, ISO 14001:2015, OHSAS 18001:2007, SA 8000:2008, ISO 5001:2018, ISO 45001:2018 and 5SC
Background Information
Commissioned in 2006, Sindesar Khurd is an underground mine, originally a satellite of Rajpura Dariba Mine, situated 82 km northeast of Udaipur, Rajasthan. It is one of the largest silver producers in India.
Process Description
Mining:
Sindesar Khurd has access to the mine through inclined ramps and underground shaft. Mining method is blast hole stoping with back filling.
Processing:
The ore is crushed both at the surface and in underground crushers, then transported to the beneficiation plant for additional crushing, milling, and the flotation process. The resulting zinc and lead concentrates are transferred to our smelters. The tailings generated from the ore beneficiation process are utilized by paste fill plants.
Technology:
The implementation of a real-time monitoring system for underground geotechnical instruments, including stress meters and earth pressure cells, has significantly improved safety and efficiency. This system enables live data readings, allowing geotechnical engineers to predict and respond to unsafe ground conditions promptly, reducing the risk of unforeseen incidents. This initiative aligns with SKM’s Trigger-Action-Response-Plan (TARP) to ensure swift corrective actions in response to unexpected impacts.
