Kathmandu— Google’s planned $15 billion artificial intelligence data center in southern India, lauded as a technological advancement for the country, is creating significant challenges for local Dalit farming communities who are losing access to their land and livelihoods. The project, slated for construction across three sites near Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, has prompted fears about the future of regional resources and the displacement of those dependent on agriculture. Relli Ramakrishna, a farmer from Tarluvada village, now faces an uncertain future after her farm was acquired for the development. Google’s parent company, Alphabet, intends to invest heavily over the next five years, connecting the center via fiber optic cables to locations across the globe.

Land Acquisition and Displacement

For nearly six months, Relli Ramakrishna has been unable to work her farm in Tarluvada, a village on the outskirts of Visakhapatnam. She describes a sense of boredom and loss, stating, “There is nothing left for me to do,” as her primary source of work and purpose has been taken from her. The land she cultivated – cashews, mangoes, and seasonal vegetables – was acquired as part of Google’s plan to build the expansive data center.

A Cornerstone of India's AI Ambitions

The Indian government is championing the project as a key component in the nation’s artificial intelligence strategy. Alphabet plans to invest $15 billion over the next five years, making it Google’s largest data center outside of the United States. The facility will be integrated into a global network connecting Singapore, South Africa, Australia, and the US through both sub-sea and terrestrial fiber optic cables.

The data center project is proceeding as planned, with construction underway across multiple sites in Andhra Pradesh. The long-term impact on displaced farmers and local resources remains to be seen.

(With inputs from Jacobin)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.