Water scarcity is a serious issue in India where some areas have been experiencing drought conditions for several years. The Coca-Cola Company shares the concerns of local communities about groundwater reserves...To begin, we would like to explain our relationship with the South India Bottling Company Private Limited (SIBCL). SIBCL is owned and run by Indian businessmen, and has agreed to be a franchise bottler for The Coca-Cola Company. The SIBCL bottling plant would be the first major industry in the region, generating employment and helping drive economic growth and prosperity in the region. This progressive view is shared by various local community leaders in the region...SIBCL will not draw any water from the river or ground water on its premises or ground water from any adjacent villages...the SIBCL bottling unit will have a state-of-the-art effluent treatment plant...In addition, initiatives are underway such as undertaking green belt projects, afforestation drives, and providing drinking water to the local community...Finally, our Company would like to address the article published on the Telegraph website entitled, “Cola behind empty pots?” The issue presented in this article has been amicably resolved. The photographer has removed the bill board containing the Coca-Cola brand logo. The Company has reciprocated by withdrawing its legal notice to him.