Google’s planned $15 billion data center complex in southern India is encountering growing legal and public opposition as environmental groups raise concerns about water supplies, wildlife and the long-term impact of one of the company’s largest international investments.
Construction is underway near Visakhapatnam in the state of Andhra Pradesh, where the project is expected to create as many as 188,000 jobs. The development, being built in partnership with Indian billionaire Gautam Adani’s business group, represents Google’s largest investment in India.
Environmental activists, however, argue the project could worsen water shortages in a city that already experiences periodic rationing. Government figures indicate Visakhapatnam receives about 410 million liters of water each day, short of the estimated 480 million liters needed to meet demand for its 2.5 million residents.
Opponents have organized marches, public meetings and awareness campaigns, arguing that additional water demands from a large data center could place further strain on local resources. Similar concerns have emerged worldwide as technology companies expand artificial intelligence infrastructure, with data centers requiring significant amounts of water and electricity to operate.
The controversy has moved into the courts. India’s Andhra Pradesh High Court is reviewing a public interest lawsuit alleging the project could affect nearby water resources. The next hearing is scheduled for Aug. 24. Three additional cases have been filed before the country’s environmental tribunal seeking to halt construction pending further environmental review.
Activists have also expressed concern about the project’s proximity to Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, located less than a kilometer away. The sanctuary provides habitat for species including leopards and pangolins, and critics fear construction activity and noise could disturb wildlife.
State officials dispute those claims, maintaining the project complies with environmental requirements and that no water intended for residential or rural drinking supplies will be diverted to the facility. The government has said it will respond to the legal challenges while remaining willing to consider legitimate public concerns.
Google has also defended the project, stating it is being developed in accordance with Indian regulations. The company said it plans to use advanced air-cooling technology to reduce water consumption and incorporate sound-dampening measures to minimize noise near the wildlife sanctuary.
Source: Reuters