Protests in Visakhapatnam, Thane against mega data centres over water, public resources; Amazon, Google respond

India's push to become an artificial intelligence powerhouse is encountering local resistance, mirroring challenges seen in Europe and North America, as residents protest the construction of mega data centers.

In Thane and Visakhapatnam, organized protests have emerged against large data center projects, with residents voicing concerns that these facilities will place additional pressure on already scarce land, electricity, and water resources. The protests highlight a growing tension between national goals for digital infrastructure and the immediate concerns of local communities.

Residents in Thane are questioning the environmental transparency and long-term impact of Amazon's proposed AI data facility. Sadhana Pradhan, a leader of the Wake Up Thanekar campaign, questioned the decision to build a data center in a residential area, stating, "Half of Thane is living on tanker water. Why have the data centre in a residential area and put all the citizens in trouble?" Protesters emphasize they are not against technology itself, but against the placement of massive data centers in densely populated areas without fully addressing their impact.

Data centers have been classified as "essential services" in India, a designation that raises concerns among residents about potential priority access to water and electricity during shortages. Following scrutiny of project approvals, community groups have submitted detailed questionnaires to companies like Amazon and local authorities, seeking information on environmental clearances, water and sewerage approvals, water demand versus civic body commitments, thermal impact, and compliance with environmental conditions.

Authorities in Thane have attempted to allay fears, with Deputy City Engineer Dhole stating that the proposed Amazon facility would receive 12 million liters per day of treated sewage water, not potable water. He noted the corporation's substantial sewage treatment capacity and existing water supply. However, residents remain concerned about issues such as heat generation and the overall strain on local resources, indicating that the conflict between national digital ambitions and community needs is likely to persist.

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Half of Thane is living on tanker water. Why have the data centre in a residential area and put all the citizens in trouble?