GMDC deploys drone for mineral exploration, prospecting

Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Ltd (GMDC), first Indian company to deploy drone-based technology 'Magarrow' for mineral discovery

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: One of the most progressive companies in Aerial Intelligence in Mineral Exploration, Mining & Infrastructure, Squadrone Infra & Mining Pvt. Ltd, Bengaluru, India, has adopted drone based Airborne Magnetometer known as “Magarrow” for Geophysical survey for Mineral prospecting and exploration.

The company deployed the technology at Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Ltd (GMDC), Ambaji, Gujarat. This technology revolutionizes mineral exploration and mineral discovery, particularly in prospecting of Copper, Lithium, Gold, Lead Zinc, Cobalt, Nickel, Manganese, REE minerals, etc.

“Magarrow” is a UAVenabled drone-based technology equipped with nonradioactive laser-pumped caesium vapour with a total field scalar Magnetometer that enables mapping of shallow and deep-seated virgin mineral deposits ranging up to 600-800m below from the ground level. It enables Geologists, Geophysicists, and researchers, to conduct studies of the earth’s strata for new and Greenfield mineral discoveries with much more ease. Commenting on the successful deployment of Magarrow, Mr Cyriac Joseph, Founder and CEO, M/s.

Squadrone Infra and Mining Pvt. Ltd. said, “This is an exciting moment as this drone-based worldclass technology would bring about a significant shift in the current methods of Mineral prospecting and revitalize mineral discoveries in the country, particularly greenfield deposits of Lithium, Copper, Gold, REE minerals."

"We can locate mineral deposits faster and more accurately in many inaccessible areas, harsh terrains, forests, deserts, farmlands, etc., without physical human entry into these areas. As it is a drone-based technology there is no need to build approach roads or disturb the ecology and environment of the mineral prospect areas." he added. Mineral prospecting projects which take up to 3 to 4 years can be completed in 5 to 6 months, Mr Cyriac said.