SHILLONG, Sep 15: As the Meghalaya government pushes to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for the state’s renowned living root bridges, the anticipation is being met with caution by the local community.
These remarkable bio-engineered wonders, shaped by the indigenous Khasi and Jaintia communities, symbolise centuries of traditional knowledge and human ingenuity. However, while the potential inscription on the prestigious list would be a monumental achievement, it also brings significant responsibilities for the custodians and stakeholders to preserve these natural marvels from an onslaught of tourists.
The living root bridges, already listed on UNESCO’s tentative list, are more than mere tourist attractions. They represent an ingenious blend of nature and culture, created by guiding tree roots to form natural crossings over rivers.
For many, the recognition of the living root bridges as UNESCO World Heritage sites would be a cause for celebration. Their inclusion would spotlight the unique cultural tradition of the Khasi and Jaintia people, highlighting the indigenous wisdom behind these living structures.
However, locals have called for caution since such international recognition would mean increased attention and greater flow of tourists.
MTDC Director, Alan West Kharkongor commended the government’s efforts to seek the heritage tag but echoed concerns about stakeholder inclusion. “In Meghalaya, the real custodians of these bridges are the people, not the government. The community’s role cannot be sidelined,” Kharkongor said.
He urged the authorities to ensure that the interests of local communities are safeguarded, particularly as these bridges, while resilient, have limitations. “World Heritage sites come with restrictions, and for the living root bridges, measures to regulate the weight they can carry must be in place to prevent damage,” he added.
Kharkongor also stressed that the UNESCO tag should bring with it greater awareness and responsibility—not just for the government but for all stakeholders.
“The bridges are delicate, and the influx of tourists could lead to additional wear and tear. The government must ensure that the community, as custodians of these structures, is equipped to handle the increased attention and maintenance that will inevitably follow.”
While many community leaders welcome the prospect of international recognition, there are undercurrents of apprehension among some local groups. Many residents remain unaware of what the UNESCO heritage tag entails and the possible changes it could bring to their lives and lands. One community leader, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, noted that the surge in tourism accompanying such a tag would demand far greater upkeep of the bridges.
“More tourists will mean more maintenance. The government must ensure that all stakeholders are aligned and that the community is properly supported,” he remarked.
Ian Lyngdoh, a known tourism promoter and academician, emphasised the need for holistic planning if the UNESCO status is granted. “The living root bridges are on private lands, and many are not aware that you have to go through someone’s property to even access them,” he said. Lyngdoh pointed out that the root bridges are part of a larger network of living root structures, primarily found in the Riwar area of the state, urging the government to create a comprehensive database of these structures. “It’s not just about a few bridges, it’s an entire ecosystem of living structures that need to be documented and preserved.”
