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Can India's water-stressed cities sustain AI data centers?

06:11

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Pracheta Sharma | Anand Desai
October 6, 2025

India is rapidly positioning itself as a global AI hub. But data centers need lots of water for cooling, putting more strain on already over-stretched supplies.

Navi Mumbai is emerging as a hub for India’s booming AI and data center industry – but at a cost. Residents face growing water shortages as massive server farms consume millions of liters of potable water for cooling. This report follows the daily struggles of locals, explores the environmental impact of digital infrastructure, and looks at efforts to balance tech growth with sustainable water use. With grey water reuse and new dam projects on the horizon, can Navi Mumbai meet the needs of both its citizens and its expanding digital economy?

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