Thane Amazon Data Centre Protest: Balkum Residents Rally Against Proposed 53-Acre Project (Watch Video)
Hundreds of Thane residents protested against a proposed 53-acre Amazon data centre in Balkum, citing concerns over water consumption, noise, and environmental impact. Amazon maintains the project is fully compliant, using dedicated power and non-potable water, while locals demand a review.
Several hundred residents gathered in the Balkum area of Thane city on Saturday to protest against a proposed 53-acre Amazon data centre. The demonstrators, organised under the ‘Wake Up Thanekar’ banner, expressed significant concerns regarding the project's impact on local infrastructure and the environment, citing potential threats to water and power supplies, as well as risks of noise and environmental pollution.
As per a report by The Telegraph, protesters claim the facility will require 12 million litres of water daily and excessive electricity. Further details from a report by The Economic Times highlight residents' fears that operational noise could reach 90 decibels, posing health risks to nearby schools, hospitals, and residential complexes within a one-kilometre radius.  Data Centre Protests in US Held Across 125 Locations Against Rapid Expansion; Check Key Reasons.
Amazon’s Stance on Environmental Compliance
In response to the growing opposition, an Amazon spokesperson stated that the facility complies with all statutory approvals and environmental regulations. Regarding energy and water consumption, the company clarified that it will not divert power from the local distribution grid serving residents, instead relying on a dedicated high-voltage substation. Previously, Mumbai Live reported, citizens have voiced concerns about increased traffic congestion and alleged large-scale tree felling at the site.
Furthermore, Amazon asserted that it does not use potable water for cooling purposes at its Indian data centres, including the Thane site, and noted that it has achieved ‘water positive’ status in the country. Addressing concerns over local ecology, the firm stated that tree removal was conducted with the necessary legal permissions and that it is planting additional native trees to offset the impact.
Escalating Tensions and Political Involvement
The local frustration follows an inconclusive meeting between the ‘Wake Up Thanekar’ delegation, the Thane municipal commissioner, and Amazon representatives. Public opposition has since drawn political attention, with Thane MP Naresh Mhaske calling for a stay on construction. Apple Price Hike Japan: iPhone Prices Raised Amidst Ongoing Currency Fluctuations in Country.
The MP has requested an independent expert committee review of all project permissions and demanded a transparent public hearing to address residents' grievances. As the conflict intensifies, local housing societies and environmental groups continue to call for greater transparency and a reconsideration of the project’s location within the densely populated neighbourhood.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 18, 2026 07:06 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
