By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 3: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) Environment Cell on Wednesday felicitated Padma Shri awardee Hally War at his residence in Shnong Siej.
War was recently conferred the Padma Shri 2026 for his contribution to the preservation and development of Meghalaya’s traditional Living Root Bridges, specifically the Umkar Living Root Bridge.
During an interaction with the KSU delegation, War shared that he began training and shaping the roots of the bridge when he was about 10 years old. Now nearly 70, he recalled that the structure was not originally intended for tourism, but to help villagers reach their agricultural lands.
He noted that before the living root bridge was established, locals relied on makeshift crossings made of bamboo and logs. The bridge has since become a major tourist attraction, supporting the village economy and providing livelihoods for the community. War added that visitor numbers grew significantly following recognition from Union and State ministers and his receipt of the Padma Shri.
Urging the younger generation to protect indigenous knowledge and heritage, War encouraged the youth to approach every task with sincerity and perseverance, stating that hard work remains the key to success.
The KSU delegation was led by CEC assistant environment secretary Shelkitbok Kharbani and South Khasi Hills District Unit general secretary Mesadap L Skhembill, who lauded War for his role in preserving the region’s unique ecological and cultural heritage.
