Andhra Pradesh: Independent Review Sought for Vizag AI Data Centres
“we are not opposed to investment or digital infrastructure”: The speakers
VISAKHAPATNAM: The proposed AI data centres around Visakhapatnam came under sharp scrutiny at a public event on Sunday, where speakers sought the constitution of an independent expert committee to conduct a comprehensive assessment before any further commitments are made.
Organised by Green Visakha at the Alluri Sitarama Raju Vignana Kendram in Dabagardens, the meeting focused on projects with a combined capacity of nearly 6,500mw and highlighted concerns over their impact on local communities, resources and the environment.
Retired IAS officer EAS Sarma, Swatch AP member Sripath Roy, human rights forum member VS Krishna and Madras high court advocate D Nagasailaja addressed the gathering. They stressed that the assessment should cover land allotments, water and power requirements, environmental impacts, public consultations, local employment, government incentives and data security.
While clarifying that “we are not opposed to investment or digital infrastructure,” the speakers insisted that transparency and accountability must guide decisions of such a large scale.
Sarma called for an independent water audit that takes into account Visakhapatnam’s drinking water needs, irrigation requirements, population growth, and industrial demand. He called for a reconsideration of any proposal to divert water from Polavaram or local reservoirs until drinking water security is ensured.
He also sought disclosure of electricity demand, government incentives and the number of jobs likely to benefit local residents, while pleadin for fair compensation for those affected by land acquisition at Tarluvada.
Sripath Roy cited the massive computing capacity and continuous power required by AI data centres, stressing the need for clarity on water sources, recycling measures and their impact on local resources.
Krishna questioned the adequacy of public disclosure and consultations, citing discrepancies in project details across Tarluvada, Rambilli and Adavivaram. Nagasailaja raised concerns about environmental clearances, diesel storage and the transparency of reports, calling for independent scrutiny of environmental data.
The speakers collectively demanded a cumulative assessment covering land use, hill cutting, drainage, traffic, water, power, waste management and ground water before moving ahead with the projects. “Only a transparent and independent review will ensure that Visakhapatnam’s long‑term interests are protected while balancing the promise of digital infrastructure with the needs of local communities,” they stressed.