Bridges Grown From Living Roots

In Meghalaya, northeastern India, Khasi and Jaintia communities have for generations guided the aerial roots of the rubber fig (*Ficus elastica*) to grow into living crossings over rivers and ravines. Young roots are threaded through hollow areca-palm trunks or along bamboo guides; over time, they join and form a stronger structure. The Meghalaya Biodiversity Board says a bridge may take about 15–25 years to become firm enough for crossing. Some bridges are likely several centuries old, though maintenance and local histories vary.