The launch of our Chennai 1 (CN1) data center marks a major leap forward, not only in infrastructure, but also in innovation, collaboration, and resilience. As India accelerates its digital transformation through initiatives like Digital India, 5G expansion and rising data consumption, CN1 stands ready to support this momentum with AI-ready digital infrastructure. But behind every breakthrough is a team of dedicated individuals who make it happen.
Meet Vijay Pathak, Director, Construction Project Management, Equinix, one of the driving forces behind CN1. His leadership and expertise were instrumental in bringing this data center to life, enabling businesses in India to scale, connect, and thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
What made working on CN1 in Chennai a meaningful and memorable experience for you as an Equinix employee?
“Being a part of the very first new build in a major metro like Chennai brings a sense of achievement, of being a pioneer and contributing to a lasting legacy. Launching the first project in any new market comes with unique challenges, from navigating local regulations and establishing new supply chains, to adapting global designs to local conditions. Successfully overcoming these first-time hurdles fosters strong bonds and a deep sense of accomplishment. Equinix’s first-of-its-kind, high-intensity project in India forged exceptional teamwork. The shared learning experience of working under high pressure and high expectations created solid, lasting professional and personal relationships among core team members and stakeholders. This atmosphere provides a platform to learn and adapt quickly, offering invaluable, broad-based experience that accelerates professional growth and positions individuals as subject- matter experts for future projects in the region.”
Can you share an example of how your team came together to solve a challenge or celebrate a milestone during the CN1 build?
“CN1 came with some of the most challenging and memorable moments. We battled monsoons and strikes, navigated construction and testing hurdles, celebrated 5.1 million safe personnel hours and overcame the biggest challenge of delivering as early as possible. Through it all, it was teamwork—shaped by the collective knowledge and expertise across Equinix, not just locally but regionally and globally—that made the CN1 build a truly remarkable achievement.
One standout example of this teamwork took place during the final sprint. During this period, every team set aside routine tasks and stepped up to accelerate the build and delivery of CN1-1. People worked beyond hours, roles, and responsibilities with the singular focus on getting the project across the finish line through ingenuity and sheer grit.”
From your perspective, what does the launch of CN1 in Chennai represent for Equinix?
“CN1 is more than an investment. This launch marks several powerful, strategic and foundational milestones:
It connects our presence in South India to Equinix’s global network.
As our first greenfield facility, it sets the benchmarks for global standards of design, construction, commissioning, operational reliability, and sustainability, demonstrated through certifications and a focus on power and water efficiency. The site positions Equinix to capture the significant projected growth in data center capacity across South India.
It contributes to talent and work force development by hiring, training, and nurturing a skilled, local workforce in construction, engineering, and operations, directly supporting the regional economy.
As India embraces a digital transformation, CN1 stands as a testament to Equinix’s commitment to building a vibrant local ecosystem. Want to be part of the trailblazing team that’s driving growth in India? Check out our career site for opportunities.