In News: India has submitted a nomination dossier to UNESCO seeking World Heritage status for Meghalaya’s Living Root Bridges under the title “Jingkieng Jri / LyChrai Cultural Landscape.”
What are Living Root Bridges (LRBs)?
- Living Root Bridges are bio-engineered structures formed by training the aerial roots of the Indian rubber tree (Ficus elastica).
- They serve as sustainable rural connectivity systems in the subtropical moist broadleaf forest eco-region of Meghalaya.
- Locally known as Jingkieng Jri, meaning “bridge of living roots.”
Communities Involved
- Developed and maintained by indigenous Khasi tribal communities.
- Knowledge is transmitted through oral traditions and community practice, reflecting indigenous ecological wisdom.
Uses and Functions
1. Connectivity & Livelihood
- Bridges, ladders and steps provide reliable transport across fast-flowing streams.
- Critical during monsoons, when conventional bridges fail.
2. Environmental Protection
- Prevent soil erosion and landslides.
- Strengthen riverbanks through living root systems.
3. Social & Cultural Uses
- Platforms and towers used for:
- Community gathering,
- Recreation,
- Local security and surveillance.
Construction Technique
1Indian rubber trees are planted on opposite riverbanks.
2Aerial roots are:
oManually guided,
oTwisted and interwoven across the stream.
3Scaffolding materials:
oAreca palm trunks,
oBamboo,
oStones.
4Time frame:
oTakes 10–15 years to become fully functional.
oStrength increases with age, often lasting several centuries.
Significance of the UNESCO Nomination
1. Cultural Landscape Recognition
- Recognises LRBs as a living cultural landscape, shaped by continuous human–nature interaction.
2. Indigenous Knowledge Systems
- Highlights sustainable, low-carbon infrastructure developed without modern engineering.
3. Conservation & Sustainable Development
- Supports:
- Biodiversity conservation,
- Climate-resilient infrastructure,
- Community-led heritage preservation.
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
