L&T to Build Uzbekistan’s First AI-Powered Data Centre

ANS: Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has secured a significant contract to build Uzbekistan’s first AI-powered, sustainable 10-megawatt data centre in Tashkent. The project, valued between Rs 1,000 crore and Rs 2,500 crore, will involve L&T managing the engineering, procurement, and construction of the facility, which will support next-generation AI applications.

According to the reports, the data centre will prioritize energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact while featuring advanced security technologies to protect sensitive data. M V Satish, L&T’s Member of Executive Committee & Advisor to the CMD, expressed pride in the project, highlighting L&T’s global expertise in executing complex ventures.

This move aligns with Uzbekistan’s push to become a hub for AI-driven innovation. The government has fostered a supportive environment for start-ups, streamlining business processes and offering incentives like tax breaks and subsidies. This has led to initiatives such as IT Park Uzbekistan in Tashkent, which nurtures tech entrepreneurs and developers.

Additionally, Uzbekistan is making strides in large-scale infrastructure, including a $10-15 billion smart city project in Nurafshan, integrating advanced technologies into urban systems.

The country is also pioneering reforms in education, introducing digital tools into schools with support from UNICEF, under its Digital Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy. The focus is on developing AI skills to prepare students for the tech-driven future.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has endorsed a national AI strategy aimed at positioning Uzbekistan as a leader in AI by 2030. This includes growing the AI-driven software market to $1.5 billion, implementing AI across government services, and establishing AI research labs. The government also plans to create a big data repository and advance computing infrastructure to support AI applications in sectors such as banking, healthcare, agriculture, and energy.

With investments and policies fostering innovation, Uzbekistan is on track to become a global AI hub, modernizing key industries and boosting economic growth.