Optimization of Ventilation System in Underground Mine

The Indian mining industry is continuously changing in terms of mechanization and manpower. In order to meet the growing mineral demand for the developmental needs of the country trackless mining using diesel-powered machinery is being increasingly used. But this diesel machinery produces a significant amount of noxious pollutants viz. Carbon Monoxide (CO) Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Nitrogen Dioxide(NO2) Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) etc. Ventilation remains the primary method to dilute the contaminants in order to ensure a safe healthy and comfortable operating environment for the workers working underground. These highly mechanized trackless mining systems required matching enhanced fresh air quantity for ventilation. Statutory provisions in India fail to these ventilation issues. Besides none of our scientific studies focus on these vital issues and as such we do not have scientific input and a database to support statutory bodies to address contaminant-based ventilation needs for any mine.