Google defends $15B AI hub project in Visakhapatnam amid environmental concerns

Google is facing protests and legal challenges regarding its proposed $15 billion AI hub in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The project, part of the ‘Bharat AI Shakti’ vision, involves a massive investment planned between 2026 and 2030.

Local residents and environmental activists have raised concerns that the facility could exacerbate water scarcity in a region already struggling with seasonal shortages for agriculture and households. There are also fears that construction and operations could disturb the biodiversity of the nearby Kambalakonda sanctuary.

In response, Google representative Alexander Smith stated that the facility will utilize advanced air-cooling technology rather than traditional water-based systems to minimize its footprint. He noted that water usage would be largely restricted to non-cooling purposes, such as restrooms, making the water footprint comparable to a standard office building. Google has also committed to replenishing 120% of the water consumed for non-cooling requirements by 2030 through measures like rainwater catchment and groundwater recharge infrastructure.