Amid record-breaking summer temperatures and expanding concrete sprawl, Bengaluru has turned to an age-old solution with a modern twist — urban farming.
A recent workshop held in the city drew attention to the pressing need for green interventions in urban landscapes, with experts calling for rooftop gardening, peri-urban agriculture, and an overarching policy to integrate farming into the city’s ecosystem.The day-long event, hosted by the Institution of Agricultural Technologists (IAT), served as a catalyst for what many are calling a timely green transition. The key message resonated across the workshop — if Bengaluru is to reclaim its reputation as India’s garden city, greenery must be restored not just in parks but across homes, rooftops, and communities.As urban areas swell and temperatures continue to climb, the conversation around sustainable development is taking a new direction. Experts at the event proposed the formation of a dedicated urban agriculture policy. Regular public engagement programmes were also suggested to build awareness and encourage citizen-led action.
Emphasising the scientific backing for such initiatives, a senior ecologist pointed out that a mere 4 per cent increase in urban green cover can cool a city’s average temperature by up to one degree Celsius. According to him, the ideal target should be 33 per cent green cover across both urban and peri-urban zones to build long-term climate resilience. The benefits, however, stretch beyond temperature control — proximity to greenery has been linked with improved mental health and community well-being.Industry voices from the agricultural policy space underscored the importance of bridging the rural-urban divide in farming practices. With more people migrating to urban centres, it was noted that agriculture must evolve from a rural-only activity to an inclusive urban opportunity. Such thinking aligns with the broader vision of sustainable cities, where food production, ecological restoration, and human health go hand in hand.
The workshop also included a hands-on session on home gardening, demonstrating practical techniques for cultivating vegetables, herbs, and fruits in confined spaces. The response from attendees was enthusiastic, with over 175 participants joining the event — many of them eager to start their own rooftop gardens.At the heart of the movement is a simple idea: turning everyday spaces into micro-farms can collectively transform the cityscape. Rooftop farming not only reduces dependency on chemically grown produce but also cleans the air and builds a sense of self-sufficiency in food production.This grassroots push for urban agriculture is not merely an environmental or aesthetic pursuit; it is a response to the city’s existential questions on climate and livability. As Bengaluru navigates the challenges of urbanisation, localised green solutions such as these could hold the key to shaping a more equitable and breathable urban future.
Also Read :Pune Metro Smartcards Help City Go Green
Urban Farming Push Grows Roots in Bengaluru
