Technology Desk | October 11, 2026: Google’s planned $15 billion AI infrastructure investment in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, has renewed debate over the environmental cost of India’s rapidly expanding data-centre industry. Local campaigners have raised questions about water availability, electricity demand, land use and ecological impact, while Google says its planned facility will use air cooling rather than draw water for cooling from an already stressed region.
Why are residents concerned?
Large AI data centres need substantial computing equipment and dependable electricity. Some cooling technologies also require significant water. Campaigners in and around Visakhapatnam want fuller scrutiny of the proposed project’s land footprint, watershed risks and effects on nearby communities. These concerns are not proof that the proposed facility has already caused a water shortage; they are questions about the project’s future impacts.
What has Google said?
In an October 11 interview reported by AFP, Google’s Asia-Pacific infrastructure and energy executive Alexander Smith said the company takes public concerns seriously and conducts environmental assessments covering grid stability, water risk, ecology and noise. He said the Visakhapatnam project would rely on air cooling and that Google would not build where its electricity requirements would take supply away from communities. These are company statements; independent monitoring of actual operations will matter once the facility begins functioning.
When could the project open?
The planned AI hub is expected to become operational in 2028, according to the October 11 report. Project timelines can change. The broader debate also extends to proposed data centres in Maharashtra, where some residents have questioned the consequences for nearby residential areas.
What should authorities disclose?
Publicly accessible environmental assessments, water-demand projections, electricity sourcing, local consultation records and compliance monitoring would help residents evaluate the project. Data-centre investment can bring digital infrastructure and economic activity, but transparent safeguards are essential for public trust.
Sources and further reading
AFP interview with Google’s infrastructure executive, October 11; Reuters reporting on India’s data-centre opposition, October 9; Reuters background on the Visakhapatnam project.
Related: Asia’s AI manufacturing boom and the regional economy.
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