Staff Reporter :
Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Mayor Atiqul Islam has encouraged the capital’s residents to utilise their rooftops.
“Rooftop gardening helps to reduce the temperature of buildings. Rooftops can be a great area for agriculture as Dhaka does not have enough space for gardens,” he said on Tuesday (July 2) in Dhaka.
Atiq said the people can produce fruits and vegetables in their rooftop gardens. It also plays a role in protecting the agricultural environment and preserving biodiversity, he said.
The DNCC will organise exhibitions to encourage the practice, the mayor said, appreciating those already involved in this practice.
Meanwhile, Atiq also announced a 10 percent tax exemption for rooftop gardens.
Rooftop gardens are becoming very popular in Dhaka and other cities across the country. Residents grow vegetables and fruits in the rooftop gardens.
Rooftop gardens contribute to creating green spaces in urban areas, which help in reducing the urban heat island effect, cooling the surrounding environment. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, improving air quality by filtering pollutants and particulates from the air.
Rooftop gardens absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and lowering the risk of flooding and waterlogging in cities.