Daybreak Why India’s data centre boom is heading for water bankruptcy
Jan 22, 2026
India's rapid data centre expansion is at odds with its worsening water crisis. Groundwater depletion leaves cities vulnerable, leading to contamination in drinking supplies. The podcast explores the high water demands of data centres and contrasts them with international examples of similar conflicts. The pressing question remains: who governs the delicate balance of water usage as the country pushes toward a digital future? This thought-provoking discussion sheds light on the urgent need for sustainable solutions.
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Contaminated Water Outbreak In Indore
- Residents in Indore fell sick with vomiting and diarrhea after contaminated drinking water caused repeated deaths.
- Officials only realised the scale after testing taps, with the toll reaching 25 by the time of reporting.
UN Declares 'Water Bankruptcy' For India
- The UN report labels many water systems as in 'water bankruptcy', meaning reserves can't recover fast enough.
- Almost all of India appears at highest risk on the report's global map.
Groundwater Acts Like Drained Savings
- Groundwater is the backbone of many Indian cities but needs time and open soil to recharge.
- Urban expansion and concrete reduce recharge, turning groundwater into a depleting savings account.