Data centres' rapid expansion raises concerns about water stress in Indian cities. Existing regulations struggle to manage the sector's significant water consumption effectively. Improved monitoring and technology are needed to verify water usage and compliance. Harmonizing state-level reuse rules will ensure consistent water management practices. Transparent reporting frameworks are crucial for tracking the cumulative resource impact of data centres.

If cities price the sale of TUW to data centres appropriately, it could convert a water security threat into a measurable improvement in river and lake quality.

Data centres' rapid expansion raises concerns about water stress in Indian cities. Existing regulations struggle to manage the sector's significant water consumption effectively.…