As the cityscape of Guwahati continues to expand at an unprecedented pace, the lush greenery that once defined the region is steadily giving way to concrete high-rises, congested roads, and shrinking open spaces. With each passing day, the city grapples with rising pollution levels, increased dependence on market produce, and a growing disconnect between its citizens and nature. Amidst these challenges, the promotion of kitchen gardens and rooftop gardens emerges as a beacon of hope—an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and health-conscious alternative that has the power to transform Guwahati’s urban living.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the way people perceive food and health. The pandemic served as a wake-up call, underlining the need for self-sufficiency and the importance of what we consume. During periods of lockdown, supply chains were disrupted, markets were closed, and many residents were left scrambling for fresh vegetables and herbs. This experience compelled several families in Guwahati to turn to their own backyards, balconies, and rooftops, rediscovering the age-old practice of growing their own food. What began as a necessity has now evolved into a lifestyle change for many urban households.
A kitchen garden—typically a small plot within or adjacent to the house—allows individuals to cultivate a variety of seasonal vegetables, herbs, and even fruits. From leafy greens like spinach and fenugreek to commonly used ingredients like tomatoes, chillies, coriander, and brinjal, these home-grown items are not only fresher but also free from harmful chemical pesticides. For those without a backyard, container gardening on balconies or verandas offers a practical alternative. Rooftop gardens, on the other hand, utilize flat concrete terraces to create productive green spaces. In a city like Guwahati, where vertical expansion is common, rooftops remain largely underused. By transforming them into gardens, residents can optimize space while contributing to the city’s ecological balance.
The benefits of kitchen and rooftop gardening extend far beyond food production. These green spaces act as natural air purifiers, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. In densely populated areas, they help regulate temperature, reduce noise levels, and mitigate the urban heat island effect. During the monsoon season, rooftop gardens can also play a role in managing rainwater runoff, reducing the risk of waterlogging—a recurring issue in many parts of Guwahati.
Gardening also brings a host of psychological and physical health benefits. In a fast-paced urban life filled with digital distractions and mental stress, tending to plants offers a calming and therapeutic experience. It encourages physical activity, fosters patience, and instills a sense of responsibility. Children, in particular, can benefit from such exposure, learning about nature, sustainability, and the value of hard work. For senior citizens, gardens offer a space for leisure, exercise, and fulfillment.
Despite the numerous advantages, the practice of home gardening in Guwahati faces several hurdles. Many residents are unaware of how to start, what to grow, or where to source organic seeds and compost. Space constraints in apartments, irregular water supply, and lack of time are also common deterrents. However, these challenges are not insurmountable. With the right awareness campaigns and institutional support, a green revolution can be nurtured within the city.
The Guwahati Municipal Corporation, in collaboration with the Assam State Government, can play a pivotal role in this transformation. Policy-level support such as subsidies on gardening tools, incentives for rooftop gardens, and workshops on organic farming can go a long way in encouraging citizens. Building by-laws could be updated to promote the inclusion of green spaces in new constructions. Community initiatives, such as local gardening clubs and cooperative societies, can facilitate the sharing of seeds, compost, and knowledge. Schools, colleges, and government institutions too can set up demonstration gardens to inspire young minds and promote environmental stewardship.
Moreover, local media—including newspapers, radio, and social media platforms—can act as powerful tools in highlighting success stories from the city. Showcasing individuals and families who have turned their rooftops into thriving farms or who feed their families entirely from kitchen gardens can serve as motivation for others to follow suit. Gardening is not just for those with land; with creativity and determination, even the smallest spaces can be turned into green oases.
There is also a compelling economic argument in favor of urban gardening. With rising vegetable prices and the increasing cost of living, growing even a portion of one’s food at home can significantly reduce household expenses. It promotes a sense of food security, especially during times of crisis or inflation. Furthermore, the excess produce can be shared with neighbours or sold in local markets, creating micro-economies and fostering community bonds.
In a city blessed with fertile soil, a humid climate, and a rich tradition of agriculture, Guwahati has all the right ingredients to lead the way in urban gardening. What is needed now is vision, awareness, and community participation. By turning our kitchens and rooftops into gardens, we can reclaim our lost connection with the earth, enhance our health, and contribute positively to the urban ecosystem.
The road to a greener, healthier, and more sustainable Guwahati begins right at home. It begins with a seed, a pot, and a little bit of care. In an age dominated by steel and concrete, cultivating green spaces is an act of resistance—and a promise of hope for the future. Let us dig our hands into the soil and plant not just vegetables, but new vision for our beloved city.
(The author is a poet, science journalist, sustainability advocate, former director, Assam Seed & Organic Certification Agency, and Assam’s Ex-joint Director of Agriculture. All views and opinions expressed are author’s own)
