The Digital Dream vs. Resource Reality: Andhra Pradesh’s Data Centre Dilemma (2035-2040)
The proposal for Google to establish three AI data centres in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, each demanding 5,000 cubic meters of water daily (2.7-4.1 million gallons) and a combined 2,100 MW of electricity, has ignited a fierce debate. Inspired by the recent rejection of a similar $1 billion Google project in Franklin Township, Indianapolis, due to water and energy concerns, this article projects the environmental and socio-economic impacts of such a venture over the next 10-15 years. It critically evaluates the trade-offs, challenges assumptions, and explores whether Andhra Pradesh can reconcile its tech ambitions with its resource constraints. Environmental Impacts: Innovation or Irreversible Damage? Water Crisis: A Parched Future? The data centres’ colossal water demand—equivalent to the daily needs of a city of 200,000—threatens Vizag’s already strained reservoirs, such as Thatipudi and Raiwada, which struggle to meet agricultural and municipal needs. By 2035-2040, unchecked extra...