Introduction

India’s mining sector is witnessing a technological evolution as BSNL and Echelon Edge collaborate to install a private 5G Standalone (SA) network at the Amlohri Open Cast Coal Mines in Madhya Pradesh. This initiative is a pioneering step towards modernizing mining operations through advanced connectivity, robust communication, and innovative digital tools.

Overcoming Mining Challenges with 5G: Safety and Efficiency in Focus

Coal mining is inherently challenging due to the harsh terrain, environmental factors, and the critical need for operational efficiency and worker safety. Connectivity in such remote locations is often unreliable, and traditional communication systems struggle to meet the demands of advanced applications like:

• Real-time video surveillance for operational monitoring.
• IoT-based environmental sensors to track air quality, temperature, and other conditions.
• Drone-based remote monitoring for improved site management.
• Integration of digital twin technology for load-haul dump operations.
• Collision avoidance systems powered by cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) technology.

Such challenges demand a high-performance, low-latency network solution, which is where private 5G excels.

How Private 5G Networks Transform Mining Operations

The private 5G Standalone network designed by Echelon Edge is tailored to handle the unique demands of the mining sector. Key features include:

• Spectrum utilization: Leveraging BSNL’s allocated 5G spectrum for high-bandwidth connectivity.
• Video surveillance and asset tracking: Ensuring better operational oversight and security.
• IoT integration: Enabling real-time environmental monitoring and predictive analytics.
• Drone technology: Facilitating efficient and precise remote inspections.
• VR models and digital twins: Optimizing mining operations through advanced simulations.
• AI-powered traffic management: Enhancing haul-road crossing efficiency and reducing bottlenecks.
• Collision avoidance systems: Improving worker safety and vehicle coordination through C-V2X.

The solution also ensures robust voice and data communication for seamless collaboration among workers and systems.

Innovative Applications of 5G in Mining: Digital Twins, VR, and IoT

In addition to addressing operational needs, the deployment includes futuristic use cases:

1. Virtual Reality (VR) models: Offering immersive visualization for mine planning and analysis.
2. Digital Twin Technology: Creating digital replicas of physical mine operations to optimize processes and resource allocation.
3. AI-driven traffic control: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to manage traffic at haul-road crossings and improve logistics efficiency.
4. Environmental monitoring: IoT sensors will measure key indicators like air quality and temperature to ensure worker safety and regulatory compliance.

These use cases highlight how private 5G networks can transform traditional industries into digitally advanced ecosystems.

Collaborations Driving 5G in Mining: C-DAC, CMPDI, and Industry Leaders

The project is backed by the Center for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) and the Central Mine Planning & Design Institute (CMPDI). This collaboration ensures the project benefits from deep industry expertise while aligning with national development goals.

Since 2023, BSNL and Echelon Edge have worked together to deploy private 5G networks in other industries, making them well-prepared for the complex demands of the mining sector.

The Indigenous Tech Powering BSNL’s Private 5G Network

This private 5G Standalone network is built using a domestically developed technology stack, reinforcing India’s technological self-reliance. BSNL’s decision to prioritize indigenous solutions aligns with the government’s “Make in India” initiative.

By combining IoT, AI, and C-V2X capabilities, the network is tailored to enable automation, safety, and efficiency in mining operations.

Private 5G: A Model for India’s Industrial Revolution

The success of this deployment can serve as a model for other mines and industries, such as:

• Smart cities: Leveraging IoT and 5G for urban planning and resource management.
• Utilities: Enabling remote monitoring and predictive maintenance of power plants and grids.
• Transportation and ports: Utilizing 5G for logistics optimization and real-time tracking.

This initiative underscores the potential of private 5G networks to drive operational excellence across India’s industrial sectors.

BSNL and Echelon Edge: Partners in Mining Modernization

BSNL provides the spectrum, infrastructure, and expertise in network deployment, while Echelon Edge ensures the network is customized for the mining sector. Their combined efforts include:

• Developing scalable, terrain-specific solutions.
• Implementing advanced monitoring and management tools.
• Ensuring seamless integration with existing systems and operations.

How C-DAC and CMPDI Strengthen 5G Deployment in Mining

The involvement of C-DAC and CMPDI ensures the network aligns with the needs of the coal mining sector. Their technical expertise adds credibility to the deployment, ensuring robust design and execution.

Amlohri 5G Deployment: Progress and Future Milestones

The project is nearing completion and is expected to go live by February 2025. This timeline aligns with BSNL’s broader plans to upgrade its infrastructure, including the nationwide rollout of 100,000 4G towers, scheduled for April-May 2025.

BSNL’s Vision for 5G-Driven Industrial Transformation

BSNL has been focused on:

• Completing its 4G network rollout using an indigenous technology stack.
• Transitioning to 5G through software upgrades of existing infrastructure.
• Expanding its portfolio of private 5G networks for industries like mining, healthcare, and manufacturing.

This deployment exemplifies how private 5G networks can drive India’s industrial modernization. The project showcases:

• The growing potential of 5G technology in transforming traditional industries.
• India’s commitment to leveraging domestically developed solutions for critical sectors.
• A blueprint for using AI, IoT, and digital twins to create safer, more efficient work environments.

For more insights into Private Networks and 5G, visit Private Networks and 5G. By setting new standards in mining operations, BSNL and Echelon Edge are not just solving current challenges but also paving the way for smarter, more connected industries.