SHILLONG, Dec 22: The state government is actively identifying and mapping heritage sites across Meghalaya, with plans to intensify these efforts in the coming months.
“Efforts are under way to map all such heritage sites. We have already initiated negotiations with UNESCO to declare the living root bridges as heritage properties, and this effort will gain momentum in the years to come,” said Art and Culture Minister Paul Lyngdoh.
In September this year, a delegation from Meghalaya, led by Lyngdoh, visited Paris to advocate for the recognition of the living root bridges as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The delegation emphasised the state’s commitment to fostering cultural and educational cooperation on a global platform.
During their visit, the team also met Simona-Mirela Miculescu, President of the 42nd session of the General Conference of UNESCO and Ambassador of Romania to UNESCO, to further this agenda.
Citing the example of the 126-year-old Pinewood Hotel, Lyngdoh said, “Our goal is to upgrade such heritage hotels and ensure that tourists not only stay but also experience Shillong as it was 126 years ago.”
Historical sites and monuments are scattered across the state. While many have been identified, efforts are ongoing to restore, preserve, and promote them. However, several still lack recognition and require urgent attention.
