The project involves excavating 250,000m3 of hard laterite rock along the length of the track. Complicating matters further, the limited workspace area meant that the excavator was limited to a 20t size class. Initially, Ircon, the contractor awarded the project, faced difficulties with a traditional rock breaker. With the support of DCS Techno Services Ltd, Rock.Zone's Indian distributor, Ircon decided to trial the Rockwheel D20, mounted on a Volvo EC210D excavator.

Productivity was said to increase dramatically whilst the risk of falling boulders was eliminated, eradicating the need for expensive barriers. The Rockwheel's cutting motion produced smaller debris, predominantly less than 5cm in size, significantly reducing risks to the existing track and simplifying removal and disposal. The precise embankment wall profile achieved by the Rockwheel minimised the need for additional preparatory work for the retaining wall, resulting in substantial cost savings for the client.

Furthermore, the operators experienced unprecedented comfort and ease of operation with the Rockwheel attachment. Ayyappa and Hare Ram Singh, who each worked six hour shifts on the excavator, expressed their enthusiasm: “Six hours working continuously with a rock breaker was very hard on the body. With the Rockwheel, I have no such problem; it's like paradise. I wish I had known about it before!” exclaimed Ayyappa, a seasoned excavator operator with 20 years of experience.

Thanks to the Rock.Zone GmbH's groundbreaking technology, the trackside communities were able to carry on with their daily lives undisturbed by excessive noise and vibrations. The Indian South-Western Railways project stands as a testament to the immense capabilities of Rock.Zone GmbH's excavator attachments, which the company claims are revolutionising the industry and setting new standards for efficiency, safety, and community friendly operations.