DSCC introduces annual awards for rooftop gardeners

The Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) announces that it will introduce annual awards for rooftop gardeners as part of efforts to promote urban greenery and environmental sustainability in the capital.
“Rooftop gardening is actively encouraged as part of the city’s broader greening initiatives.

To encourage those engaged in rooftop gardening in Dhaka, the top 10 rooftop gardeners are awarded every year by the city corporation,” DSCC Administrator Abdus Salam has said.

He delivers the statement as chief guest at the inauguration of the National Tree Plantation Programme-2026 in the capital on Saturday.

He added that discussions are to be held with the government regarding possible holding tax rebates for rooftop gardeners in the future.

Highlighting environmental concerns, he says large-scale tree plantation and proper maintenance of planted trees are essential to protect Dhaka, adding, “There is no alternative to tree plantation in tackling the adverse impacts of climate change.”

He expresses concern over the declining groundwater level and rising temperature in Dhaka, saying, “Concrete expansion is preventing rainwater from seeping into the ground.”

He urges citizens to leave portions of newly constructed buildings free of concrete and preserve grass to support natural water absorption.

Abdus Salam also informs that an initiative is taken to establish a central nursery at Osmani Udyan, from where saplings are distributed free of cost to citizens.

He cautions that mobile courts are conducted every Saturday across all 10 DSCC regions to control illegal occupation, unlicensed businesses and street vendors.

Under the tree plantation programme, DSCC plans to plant 300,000 trees within its jurisdiction from 2026 to 2030. As part of the inauguration day activities, 500 trees are planted across 10 regions of the city corporation.