“Waterman of India” opposes use of water from reservoirs for data centers

Water conservator Rajendra Singh (left) displays the Jal Biradari representation with National Jal Biradari organizer Bolisetta Satyanarayana at a press conference in Visakhapatnam on Thursday. Photo credit: IN PARADISE

Water conservationist Rajendra Singh, known as the ‘Waterman of India’, said on Thursday that no water from Mudasarlova and Gambheeram Gedda reservoirs should be used for data centres. He expressed concern over the likely impact of the project on the city’s hills and watersheds.

Mr. Singh and Jal Biradari national convener Bolisetty Satyanarayana offered morning prayers at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Simhachalam. They then met I. Kasi Viswanadha Raju, Chief Conservator of Forests, Visakhapatnam and asked him to take stock of the ground situation and act within his authority. As the Divisional Forest Officer was not available, they left a copy of the statement addressed to the Principal Secretary, Forest Department.

Addressing a press conference in the city later in the day, Mr. Singh said that land belonging to the Devasthanam has been allotted to private companies for the project. He said cutting hills and clearing vegetation could cause soil erosion and lead to a reduction in Mudasarlov’s storage capacity.

Citing the directions and observations of the Supreme Court on Environmental Liability in Writ Petition (PIL) No. 137 of 2026, he said the field-level observation raised questions about compliance with safeguards. He urged the authorities to inspect the site and take action against violations if found.

Mr. Satyanarayana will also submit a representation to Deputy Chief Minister and Environment and Forests Minister Pawan Kalyan in Amaravati seeking immediate government intervention. Mr Singh called on residents, members of the public, the media and environmental groups to act together.

Published – 15 Oct 2026 19:15 IST