10% Tax Waiver for Rooftop Gardens: Mayor Atiqul Islam to Introduce 'Banana Tree Therapy' from September

In a progressive move to foster urban greenery and environmental sustainability, Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Mayor Atiqul Islam announced a 10% tax waiver for residents who cultivate rooftop gardens. This initiative, unveiled on World Environment Day, is part of a broader campaign to combat the environmental challenges facing the city. Starting from September, the DNCC will also introduce an innovative concept called 'Banana Tree Therapy,' aimed at further enhancing the urban landscape.

The 10% tax waiver represents a significant incentive for city dwellers to transform their rooftops into verdant spaces. Mayor Islam emphasized that this initiative is not only a financial relief but also a step towards a healthier and more sustainable urban environment. “Rooftop gardens can play a crucial role in reducing the heat island effect, improving air quality, and providing fresh produce,” he remarked during the World Environment Day celebrations.

Residents who wish to avail themselves of this benefit must meet specific criteria set by the DNCC. These include maintaining a minimum garden size and ensuring the cultivation of a diverse range of plants. The DNCC will provide guidelines and support to help residents start and sustain their rooftop gardens, ensuring the initiative's success and sustainability.

In addition to the tax waiver, Mayor Atiqul Islam introduced the concept of 'Banana Tree Therapy,' which will be officially launched in September. This unique initiative involves planting banana trees in public spaces, schools, and residential areas to promote environmental awareness and well-being. The therapy aspect refers to the calming and therapeutic benefits of interacting with nature, which can significantly improve mental health.

“Banana trees are not only easy to grow but also have numerous environmental benefits,” explained Mayor Islam. “They help in reducing air pollution, providing shade, and their leaves can be used for various purposes, including packaging and as organic compost.”

The announcement came on a symbolic day, World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5th. This year, the DNCC organized various activities, including tree planting drives, educational workshops, and community clean-ups. The theme for the event was “Greening Dhaka,” highlighting the city’s commitment to sustainable urban development.

In his address, Mayor Islam stressed the importance of community involvement in environmental conservation. “Our efforts will only be successful if every resident takes part in this green revolution. Together, we can make Dhaka a model city for environmental sustainability,” he urged.

The announcement has garnered positive reactions from environmentalists, urban planners, and the general public. Dr. Nafisa Ahmed, an environmental scientist at Dhaka University, praised the initiative, stating, “The tax waiver is a practical approach to encourage urban gardening, and the 'Banana Tree Therapy' is an innovative way to integrate nature into our daily lives.”

Local residents are also enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing to a greener city while benefiting from tax incentives. “I’ve always wanted to start a rooftop garden but never had the motivation. This tax waiver is the perfect push I needed,” said Rashed Karim, a resident of Gulshan.

The DNCC is currently working on the logistics to implement these initiatives effectively. They plan to conduct workshops and provide resources to educate residents on the best practices for rooftop gardening and the care of banana trees. Furthermore, the DNCC is considering partnerships with local nurseries and gardening centers to supply plants and gardening materials at subsidized rates.

Mayor Atiqul Islam’s initiatives are seen as part of a larger vision to create a resilient and sustainable Dhaka. By integrating urban agriculture and innovative green therapies, the DNCC aims to address the city's environmental challenges while enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

As September approaches, the anticipation for the launch of 'Banana Tree Therapy' and the tax waiver is building. These initiatives are set to transform Dhaka’s urban landscape, fostering a sense of community and environmental stewardship among its residents.