Google’s Mega $15 Billion India Data Centre Project Runs Into Environmental Concerns.

Construction of Google’s planned data centre hub in India is progressing rapidly, with the hillside above the project site in Andhra Pradesh transformed into terraced steps after being cleared down to red soil. However, growing opposition from environmental groups is posing challenges for the US technology giant’s $15 billion investment.

The Andhra Pradesh government, led by an ally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has described the project as a historic and transformative initiative. The state government has rejected allegations that approvals were rushed without adequately assessing potential risks to local water resources and wildlife.

The project is now facing increasing scrutiny, with multiple legal challenges filed over concerns related to water availability and its location near a wildlife sanctuary that is home to species including leopards and pangolins.

The controversy could become an early test for Google’s largest-ever investment in India as the company seeks to expand its digital infrastructure footprint in the country.