Microsoft’s data center plan in Mekaguda faces local opposition. Despite the company’s claims of compliance with local regulations, villagers have accused Microsoft of illegally occupying land, dumping industrial waste, and polluting the environment.
In March 2022, Microsoft announced its intention to build a data center on a 22-acre plot in Mekaguda. Construction has progressed rapidly, with 70% of the building completed by July 2023. However, in July of that year, a group of 56 local residents filed a petition against Microsoft and other companies in Telangana’s High Court.
The petitioners allege that Microsoft has illegally encroached upon Tungakunta Lake, using it as a dump yard for industrial waste. This, they claim, has led to air and water pollution, affecting their cattle and livelihoods. Additionally, the petitioners accuse Microsoft of dumping waste into nearby borewells and roads.
Microsoft has stated they comply with local requirements and have the necessary permits. Though villagers worry about the environmental impact of data centers.
An average data center consumes 3 to 5 million gallons of water daily, equivalent to what 30,000 to 50,000 people would use. That’s a significant burden in a country like India, which is impacted by heat waves and water scarcity.
The Mekaguda data center is part of Microsoft’s broader plan to create a massive data center hub in Telangana. While the project promises to create jobs and boost the local economy, it also raises concerns about the environmental costs associated with data center development. The race for data centers, driven by the increasing demand for digital services, is placing a significant strain on natural resources.
Reference- Microsoft Newsroom, Rest Of World article, National Geographic