Digha Emerges as Potential Site for HPL’s Proposed AI Data Centre

Haldia Petrochemicals Limited (HPL) is exploring around 100 acres of land in Digha for a proposed AI data centre, marking a significant shift from the project’s original plan in Haldia.

The Haldia Development Authority had earlier identified multiple plots in Haldia for the proposed facility. However, the reason behind HPL’s reported move to explore Digha has not been disclosed.

If approved, the project could become one of West Bengal’s largest AI infrastructure investments and add further momentum to the state’s efforts to develop a stronger technology and digital infrastructure ecosystem.

AI data centres require substantial land, reliable and uninterrupted power, high-capacity connectivity and large volumes of water for cooling. Haldia already offers several of these advantages, including HPL’s own power plant, multiple backup power sources and established water infrastructure.

Against this backdrop, the exploration of Digha as a potential alternative location represents an unexpected development in the project’s plans. A data centre of this scale could also generate demand for supporting infrastructure, power, connectivity and technology services in the region.

The proposed investment comes as West Bengal seeks to strengthen its position in emerging technology sectors, including artificial intelligence and data infrastructure. The eventual location and scale of HPL’s proposed AI data centre will be closely watched as the project progresses.