Safety is the cornerstone of rock blasting operations: ADGP

Emphasizing safety in rock blasting operations, RISE-25 workshop focuses on innovations for efficiency and sustainability in NITK-Surathkal.

Emphasising on importance of safety in rock blasting operations, Additional Director General of Police, Fire and Emergency Services, M. Nanjundaswamy, said safety is non-negotiable and cornerstone of rock blasting operations.

Inaugurating the two-day workshop on “Rock Blasting Innovations for Safety & Efficiency” (RISE-25) on Friday at NITK-Surathkal here, Mr. Nanjundaswamy said every decision must prioritise the well-being of workers, communities, and the environment. The innovations must focus on reducing risks, minimising environmental impacts, and adhering to the highest safety standards. Advance technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, should be leveraged to create sustainable value to the operations.

The officer, an alumnus of NITK, said collaboration between researchers, engineers, policymakers, and industry leaders was crucial to transform industries, save lives, and protect our planet.

Sharath Kumar Pallerla, Advisor, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, said events such as RISE-25 were vital for developing innovative solutions to address challenges, and foster collaboration between academia and industry. Dean of Research and Consultancy, National Institute of Karnataka(NITK) Surathkal, Uday Bhat, also spoke.

The workshop was organised by NITK’s Department of Mining Engineering, in collaboration with CSIR-Central Institute of Mining & Fuel Research Regional Centre, Nagpur, and Anna University, Chennai. The workshop throws light on latest advancements in explosives, blast design, monitoring techniques, and safety protocols. Rock blasting is a critical process in mining, quarries, and infrastructure projects such as tunnels, canals, and metro systems, the NITK said in a press release.