Faiza Tehseen

A smart workforce trained in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for minerals’ extraction can revolutionize this sector, Abdul Bashir, Principal Geologist of Koh-e-Daleel Mining Company (PVT) Limited, told WealthPK.

“Outdated mining techniques and equipment, poor safety standards, and untrained work force to meet the modern needs are hindering Pakistan’s true development in the mining sector. There is no doubt that a digitized mining sector can fetch a fortune to the state wallets. To improve operational efficiency and to digitize the mining and mineral extraction sector, AI-based trained workforce is direly needed,” he said.

The geologist said integration of AI, automation, and data analytics will improve the mining sector’s productivity. AI-based mining solutions will also help reduce workplace hazards and environmental impacts. “Although AI-based mining has a vast potential, in Pakistan, there is a major skill gap in this area. Very few mining professionals are trained in the use of AI-based technology, while the number of work force aware of its use is equal to nothing,” he said.

He said AI-based smart mining was not just installation of sensors or automated machines, but rather it was related to the human capital capable of interpreting and running the said systems. So, scaling up AI-based programs is crucial to making the mining sector really efficient. Bashir said, “AI-based smart solutions include real time data monitoring and analysis, geological modelling through machine learning, equipment diagnostics, predictive maintenance, smart haulage, autonomous drilling, and environmental monitoring by using sensors or drones.

Work force is the key to using all the said modern interventions. So, learning industrial automation in the relevant field is the need of the time.” “To cope with the grappling economic issues in Pakistan, mineral wealth exploitation is important. AI-based smart mechanized mining can unlock the potential of immense wealth flow in the country. In the existing mining and geology trainings and degree programs, integration of AI modules is very important,” he said. He said all the relevant stakeholders should consider AI-based mining, mineral extraction, and value addition.

The government should also get coordination from the friendly countries’ expert in the AI-based mining, particularly China. Discussing with WealthPK the importance of AI-based training for a smart mining system, miner and geologist Imran Babar said, “AI-based modern technology is crucial to making the mining sector more productive.

Besides reducing the likelihood of mining equipment failure, AI is also helpful in predictively enabling the mining equipment maintenance, unexpected breakdowns, and to cut down the time.” He said it is important to train the mining workforce in using the AI-based equipment and to meet technicalities in this field. It will not only improve the productivity and quality of mining product but also shorten the time span of the operations, he added.

Credit: INP-WealthPk