09 September,2026 11:07 AM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondent
Aaditya Thackeray. File Photo
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray on Tuesday opposed the proposed data centre and internal ring metro project in Thane, citing concerns over their potential environmental and public health impact.
Speaking to residents near the proposed data centre site in Balkum, the former Maharashtra minister questioned the suitability of setting up the facility across 53 acres in what he described as the heart of the city.
Thackeray raised concerns about the project's water requirements, diesel storage and potential noise levels, while also objecting to the proposed tree felling associated with the ring metro project.
Thackeray said a data centre spread across 53 acres should not be constructed in a densely populated part of Thane.
He argued that the location could create additional pressure on the city's infrastructure and resources, particularly because of the facility's requirements for cooling and backup power.
The proposed project has drawn attention from local residents and environmental concerns, with Thackeray urging citizens to examine its potential impact before construction moves ahead.
Thackeray claimed that the data centre would require a large quantity of water for its cooling systems.
He also alleged that the facility would store around five lakh litres of diesel to operate generators in the event of power interruptions.
According to Thackeray, the scale of water consumption and fuel storage raised questions about the project's suitability for an urban location.
The claims regarding the project's resource requirements were made by Thackeray while addressing residents and were not independently verified in the report.
Aaditya Thackeray also raised concerns over the potential noise generated by the data centre.
He claimed that the facility could produce continuous noise levels of up to 90 decibels because of its equipment and generator operations.
The former minister said such noise could affect people living in surrounding areas and should therefore be considered while assessing the project's environmental and public health implications.
Thackeray also criticised the proposed internal ring metro project in Thane, claiming that its construction could result in the felling of around 3,500 trees.
He argued that removing trees for the project would increase concretisation in a city known for its green spaces and tree cover.
Thackeray said the environmental impact of the project should be assessed before decisions are taken on construction and tree removal.
Urging residents to come together against both projects, Thackeray said he would extend political support to their opposition.
His comments come as Thane continues to see proposals for large infrastructure and commercial developments aimed at expanding the city's transport and technology-related capacity.
While supporters of such projects have pointed to potential economic and infrastructure benefits, opponents have raised questions over their impact on water resources, green cover, traffic, pollution and the city's existing infrastructure.
(With inputs from PTI)
