Shillong, January 29: The dossier seeking World Heritage status for Living Root Bridges, locally known as Jingkieng Jri, has been formally submitted to UNESCO in Paris for consideration under the World Heritage List 2026–27, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced on Thursday.
The submission was made by India’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNESCO, marking a significant milestone in Meghalaya’s efforts to secure global recognition for the centuries-old tradition of bio-engineered living bridges crafted from the roots of rubber fig trees by indigenous communities.
The Chief Minister noted that the development comes close on the heels of the conferment of the Padma Award on Bah Halley War, whose lifelong work has been instrumental in practising, promoting, and conserving the unique tradition of Living Root Bridges.
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“These bridges are not just structures but living symbols of harmony between humans and nature,” Sangma said, expressing optimism that the heritage will be inscribed this year. He emphasised that global recognition would honour the indigenous communities who have safeguarded and passed down this sustainable knowledge system across generations.
If inscribed, the Living Root Bridges would join the list of globally recognised World Heritage sites, bringing international attention to Meghalaya’s indigenous wisdom, sustainable practices, and cultural legacy, while strengthening conservation efforts and community-led heritage protection in the region.
