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AI Data Centers Drain India's Water Supply
15 Aug
Summary
- Over half of India's data centers are in water-stressed areas.
- Groundwater extraction in Ghaziabad is 272% of the recommended share.
- Lack of transparency surrounds data center water usage regulations.
India's ambition to become a leading AI data center hub is creating a significant strain on its water resources. More than half of the nation's data centers are situated in regions already experiencing water stress, such as Ghaziabad, near New Delhi.
In densely populated Khora, Ghaziabad, residents face immense water scarcity. Digging 1,000-1,200 feet for groundwater is common, with many still lacking private water connections. This crisis is exacerbated as nearby data centers require substantial water for server cooling.
Ghaziabad's groundwater data reveals an alarming trend, with withdrawals reaching approximately 272% of the recommended share for 2024-2025. This expansion comes as India's data center capacity grew from 375 megawatts in 2020 to around 1,500 megawatts by 2025, consuming an estimated 150 million tons of water.
Experts point to a critical lack of transparency and conclusive regulation governing data center water use. Mandatory annual disclosure of energy, water, and carbon consumption, including water sources and recycling rates, is urgently needed. Stricter siting decisions and efficiency standards are also recommended.
