CPM opposes Vizag Google data centre, flags land and environmental concerns
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) on Tuesday opposed the proposed Google data centre in Visakhapatnam, scheduled for foundation laying on the 28th by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, alleging irregularities in land acquisition, lack of compensation to farmers, and inadequate environmental clearances.
CPM State secretary V. Srinivasa Rao said the coalition government was pushing the project in a “hasty manner” despite several unresolved concerns, and demanded full clarity before proceeding with such a large-scale investment.
He alleged that 601 acres of land had been acquired from Tarluvada, Adavivaram, and Rambilli areas, and claimed that around 520 farmers had not received compensation. Most of those affected, he said, belonged to Dalit and economically weaker sections, and further alleged that the land was acquired forcibly.
Raising additional concerns, he questioned the structure of the project, alleging that although it is being promoted under the Google brand, the implementation could be routed through the Adani Group.
Srinivasa Rao also questioned whether environmental and social impact assessments had been conducted before beginning work. He warned that the project could affect Visakhapatnam’s drinking water resources and said no clarity had been provided on its impact.
On employment projections, he pointed out that while Union ministers have indicated the project may create 5,000–6,000 jobs, the State government has claimed up to 1.5 lakh jobs, calling the figures contradictory and misleading. He sought clarity on the actual benefits for North Andhra.
He also criticised the reported incentives worth ₹22,000 crore being extended to the project in the form of water, electricity, roads, and tax benefits, despite an estimated investment of ₹1.2 lakh crore.
Expressing environmental concerns, he said experts had warned that the data centre could raise temperatures in Visakhapatnam. He urged the government to prioritise public welfare and ensure transparency before moving ahead with the project.