Siej Village(Meghalaya), July 12: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman visited the iconic living root bridge at Siej Village, marveling at the indigenous community’s sustainable living practices that date back centuries. These natural wonders, created by guiding the roots of rubber fig trees (Ficus elastica) across rivers and streams, have been a testament to the ingenuity and ecological wisdom of the Khasi and Jaintia tribes.
With some of these bridges estimated to be over 200 years old, Sitharaman praised the community’s efforts in preserving this ancient tradition. “The living root bridges are not just a marvel of nature, but a reflection of the community’s deep understanding of the environment and their commitment to living in harmony with it,” she said.
The visit highlighted the importance of community-led conservation and the potential for indigenous wisdom to inspire global sustainability efforts. The living root bridges, which are currently being considered for UNESCO World Heritage status, continue to be a source of fascination for visitors from around the world.
Sitharaman’s visit to the living root bridge at Siej Village underscored the significance of preserving traditional knowledge systems and the role they can play in promoting sustainable development. As the world grapples with environmental challenges, the living root bridges of Meghalaya offer a unique example of nature-based solutions that can inspire and educate.
