MP Dismisses Misinformation on Visakhapatnam Data Centres, Cites Surplus Water and Power Capacity
Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat on Tuesday dismissed concerns over proposed data centre projects in the city, calling claims of water scarcity and environmental damage “misleading and baseless.”
Addressing the media along with GVMC Commissioner Ketan at the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation office, he said the information being circulated on social media was creating “unnecessary fear” among the public.
He said the city currently receives about 410 million litres per day (MLD) of water supply. Factoring in projected population growth, industrial expansion, data centres and other requirements, demand is estimated at around 1,500 MLD. He added that existing infrastructure has a capacity of about 1,243 MLD, while the Polavaram project is expected to add another 2,110 MLD, ensuring a comfortable surplus.
On concerns over power demand, he said these were not supported by technical evidence. Data centres, he noted, would attract investment, generate employment and strengthen the digital economy of Andhra Pradesh. He also said the State’s planned expansion of renewable energy capacity would meet future requirements.
The MP said all data centre projects had undergone Environmental Impact Assessments and received statutory approvals. He added that safeguards such as tree conservation, compensatory afforestation, noise control and temperature management systems would be implemented wherever required.
He clarified that global firms such as Google are part of the technology ecosystem supporting the projects, while infrastructure development is being handled by partner companies.
He said certain groups were attempting to obstruct investment and industrial growth under the guise of environmental concerns, and urged the public to rely on verified information.
He added that both the Centre and State are working to develop Visakhapatnam into a major digital and technology hub, and appealed for public support for the city’s development plans.