RK Road, in the heart of Rangpur city, is now known as an upmarket area. There, on the roof of banker Usman Ali's four-storey building, is a two-tier rooftop farm on 1,900 square feet. New plants have been added over the past three years, and the farm of flowers and fruit is run by the homemaker, Aleya Khatun.

"The roof was lying empty, so if we can get something from it, that's good for my family and our health," she said. "When guests come, being able to give them something fresh gives me great joy. Money isn't everything; feeling good and being well is a big thing."

Most roofs in the new divisional city of Rangpur are still empty. Whether for protecting the environment, meeting family nutrition or pursuing a hobby, rooftop farming needs to grow, she said. "Whether it's Dhaka or Rangpur, if we want our city green, want to be well and want a safe environment, everyone should make their roof green."

Those who take it up know rooftop farming is a unique way to beautify their home. A well-planned house remains incomplete until its roof is filled with trees, fruit and foliage, she believes.

Source: Shykh Seraj, Chhad Krishi. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.