Iran has taken a significant stride in the mining sector with the development of advanced radar-based mine wall monitoring technology, positioning itself among the world’s top five mining powers. This achievement aligns with the country’s strategic shift towards diversifying its economy away from oil, as directed by the Supreme Leader.
Farshad Moghimi, Deputy Minister of Industry, Mine and Trade, and head of the Organization for Development and Renovation of Iranian Industries (IDRO), announced the breakthrough during a visit to the Center for Development of Information Technology (MEGFA). “With this technology, Iran now ranks among the five leading countries globally in measuring and analyzing the stability of mine walls,” Moghimi stated, underscoring the country’s newfound capability in mining technology.
The technology, developed domestically, integrates radar and artificial intelligence to monitor mine walls, enhancing safety and productivity. Moghimi emphasized IDRO’s role in fostering smart and technologically advanced mining infrastructure, leveraging local knowledge and the expertise of young specialists. “MEGFA has utilized radar and artificial intelligence to domestically produce the first mine wall monitoring system in the country,” he noted, highlighting the contribution of knowledge-based companies to the project.
The system has been successfully piloted at the Angouran lead and zinc mine, demonstrating its effectiveness in boosting efficiency, reducing wall collapse risks, and identifying high-risk zones. This achievement is a testament to Iran’s growing prowess in mining technology, combining local innovation with cutting-edge AI and radar technology.
Moghimi announced IDRO’s readiness to provide this knowledge-based product to mining companies and the National Organization for Mine Development and Renovation for nationwide deployment. This move is expected to significantly enhance safety standards and operational efficiency across Iran’s mining sector.
The development of this technology is a significant step towards Iran’s goal of replacing oil with mining as a primary economic driver. It also underscores the country’s commitment to leveraging local expertise and innovation to achieve its strategic objectives.
The successful implementation of this technology could have far-reaching implications for the global mining industry. It demonstrates the potential of integrating advanced technologies like AI and radar in mining operations, setting a precedent for other countries to follow. Moreover, it highlights the importance of investing in local research and development to drive innovation and technological advancement in the mining sector.
As Iran continues to invest in its mining infrastructure and technology, it is poised to become a major player in the global mining industry. This development could also spur competition and innovation among other mining powers, driving the sector towards greater safety, efficiency, and productivity.