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Environmental groups and experts demanded an independent assessment of proposed AI data centres in Visakhapatnam with nearly 6,500MW capacity. At a Green Visakha meeting, speakers raised concerns over water, power, land use, jobs and environmental impact. They clarified they support investment but sought transparency and a cumulative review before projects move ahead.

Plans for a cluster of AI data centres around Visakhapatnam drew pointed criticism at a public meeting, with speakers demanding an independent expert committee carry out a full assessment before authorities make any further commitments on the projects.

The event, organised by environmental group Green Visakha at the Alluri Sitarama Raju Vignana Kendram in Dabagardens, zeroed in on data centre proposals with a combined capacity of nearly 6,500MW, raising concerns about their toll on local communities, natural resources and the environment.

Speakers flag land, water, power and jobs

Retired IAS officer EAS Sarma, Swatch AP member Sripath Roy, human rights forum representative VS Krishna and Madras High Court advocate D Nagasailaja were among those who addressed the gathering, reports Deccan Chronicle. They argued that any review must examine land allotments, water and power needs, environmental fallout, the adequacy of public consultations, local hiring, government incentives extended to the projects, and data security safeguards.

The panel was careful to frame its position as one of scrutiny rather than opposition, stating that they were not against investment or digital infrastructure as such, but insisted that decisions of this scale demanded transparency and accountability.