The Incredible Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya (Video)
In the lush landscapes of Meghalaya, a captivating engineering tradition endures, preserving ancient wisdom for future generations. The people here have mastered the art of living root bridges, an ingenious way to navigate the rugged terrain of this region. Towering ficus elastica trees, reaching impressive heights, play a crucial role in this engineering feat. The bridge weavers possess remarkable skills. They carefully manipulate the aerial roots of these giant trees to form bridges, bridging gaps and conquering formidable obstacles like raging waterfalls and treacherous crevices.
These bridges have stood the test of time, connecting villages to markets, and enabling safe passage across otherwise impassable terrains. A labor of love and dedication, the construction of these living root bridges spans many years. Each generation takes up the role of architect, designer, engineer, and retrofitter, ensuring the bridges' continuous service to present and future inhabitants. This age-old tradition not only represents a physical connection but also serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, weaving together the past, present, and the promise of a harmonious future.
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Top image: Living root bridge of Meghalaya. Source: Mazur Travel / Adobe Stock.
