Meta Platforms has unveiled plans for a multibillion-dollar investment in an extensive undersea cable project named ‘Waterworth,’ aiming to bolster digital connectivity between India and the United States. The ambitious initiative involves laying over 50,000 kilometers of fiber-optic cables, connecting five continents, and is expected to be operational by the end of the decade.
This strategic move is designed to enhance Meta’s control over its vast internet traffic, reduce reliance on traditional telecommunications providers, and mitigate geopolitical risks. The proposed cable route is set to link the U.S. East Coast to India via South Africa, and from India to the U.S. West Coast through Australia, forming a ‘W’ shape around the globe.
India’s significant role in Meta’s cable routing strategy underscores its importance as a vital market for consumer and enterprise AI. This project is poised to support India’s burgeoning demand for digital services, aligning with the country’s digital growth objectives.
The ‘Waterworth’ project is currently in the early stages of development, with detailed announcements anticipated in the near future. Upon completion, it will stand as one of the most extensive and technologically advanced subsea cable systems globally, significantly enhancing the scale and reliability of the digital infrastructure that underpins Meta’s suite of applications and services.