Andhra CM says critics of Google data centre don't understand its potential

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has said that while other States are watching Google's proposed data centre in Visakhapatnam with interest, some local voices are criticising the project without understanding its basics or the benefits it could bring to the region. He also expressed surprise at claims that the project is already contributing to water shortages in the city, noting that construction has not yet gained pace.

Speaking at a public meeting after launching the 'Swarna Andhra–Swachch Andhra' programme at the ZP High School in A. Koduru village, K. Kotapadu mandal, Madugula Assembly constituency, Mr. Naidu responded to recent criticism of the data centre project. He said the project has significant potential for the region's future, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence.

The Chief Minister's remarks came after students of the school made a presentation on the programme, zero-waste management, and emerging technologies. Praising the students, he said their knowledge of emerging technologies was encouraging. Referring to a student's explanation of quantum computing, he admitted, "Even I was not aware of some of the facts about quantum computing that the student spoke about."

Mr. Naidu highlighted that such young minds should be given opportunities to pursue careers in emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence, which he said would shape the future. He added that data centres are essential for this growth.

Expressing confidence in the region's development, the Chief Minister said Anakapalli would emerge as the State's No. 1 district over the next 25 years, citing rapid industrialisation and investments across sectors such as steel, pharmaceuticals, and data centres.

He also assured that the State Government is committed to bringing Polavaram water to Anakapalli and pledged adequate water for every irrigation project in the district.

Regarding cleanliness, Mr. Naidu reiterated his appeal for one Saturday every month dedicated to sanitation activities. He said every village should aim to become a zero-waste panchayat, with waste segregated at source and recycled or scientifically processed. He noted that about 143 metric tonnes of legacy waste had been cleared in the past two years and stressed the need for 100% door-to-door garbage collection and source segregation.

Responding to requests from Madugula MLA Bandaru Satyanarayana Murthy, the Chief Minister assured that the State Government would propose a Skill University to train local youth in industry-relevant skills. He also assured that repair works at the Raiwada Reservoir would be taken up.

Anakapalli MP C.M. Ramesh, Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister P. Narayana, Collector Vijaya Krishnan, Swachch Andhra Corporation chairman K. Pattabhiram, and other officials were present at the event.