Unpacking Environmental Justice Amid the Data Centre Boom in India
by Dr Gopabandhu Dash
India’s rapid expansion of AI and data centres is raising concerns about environmental justice, resource use, and the impact on vulnerable communities. In this article, Dr Gopabandhu Dash examines the growing ecological footprint of data infrastructure, including its demands on water, electricity, land, and its contribution to carbon emissions. Drawing on studies, public interventions, and international experiences, the article argues that the costs of digital expansion are often borne by marginalized populations. It calls for greater public scrutiny, stronger environmental safeguards, and a more equitable approach to technological development.