How AI is transforming water assets: Hariharan V, Global CIO, VA Tech WABAG

In asset-heavy industries, digital transformation is often mistaken for software modernization. For VA Tech WABAG, the real shift is happening much closer to the ground—inside pumps, membranes, and treatment plants that operate for decades under tight regulatory and environmental constraints.

Under the leadership of Hariharan V, Global CIO, VA Tech WABAG’s technology agenda is increasingly shaped by one question: how can AI materially improve the reliability, efficiency, and economics of water infrastructure?

Building the digital foundation for AI-led operations

Before AI can deliver value, the fundamentals must be right. WABAG’s recent digital initiatives have focused on securing sensitive information, enabling global collaboration, and modernizing core applications that support long-cycle infrastructure projects. “Protecting company’s sensitive information from security threats and give confidence to our business and stakeholders a safe working environment,” says Hariharan.

In parallel, the company has invested in scalable communication and collaboration ...