2 min readMumbaiFeb 26, 2026 12:22 AM ISTAnnouncing timelines, Fadnavis said the “implementation of an IoT- and AI-based monitoring system across all construction projects would be completed soon.”Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been directed to develop a dynamic monitoring system based on Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to track sources of air pollution across the city.Replying during Question Hour in the Legislative Council, Fadnavis said air pollution cannot be monitored effectively unless the system is fully IoT- and AI-driven.Raising the issue, Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Anil Parab flagged rising air pollution levels in the Kherwadi area of Bandra, pointing to construction activities and infrastructure projects as major contributors.Responding to the concerns, Fadnavis said the BMC has been instructed to create a system capable of tracking all pollution sources, whether from government or private projects.“Unless it is 100 per cent IoT and AI-based, it will not happen. We have given such instructions and will ensure it is completed at the earliest,” he said.Environment and Climate Change Minister Pankaja Munde also addressed concerns over discrepancies in Air Quality Index (AQI) data, stating that pollution data from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) should be relied upon.Several members also raised concerns over rising pollution levels in different parts of the state.Story continues below this adAnnouncing timelines, Fadnavis said the “implementation of an IoT- and AI-based monitoring system across all construction projects would be completed soon.”Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With more than nine years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd