Suspension bridges take many forms, but few grow stronger as they age. In Meghalaya’s Khasi and Jaintia Hills, communities train the aerial roots of the rubber fig (Ficus elastica) across streams and ravines using bamboo poles, hollowed trunks, and other organic supports. Over 15 to 20 years, they gradually thicken into sturdy, foot-ready spans.
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Being living tissue, they resist rot, adapt to seasonal strain, and continue gaining density with moisture. Maintenance involves pruning and steering new shoots to preserve structural integrity, allowing the living root bridges to function as long as their host trees stay healthy.
Several in the region are over a hundred years old and still in use. The Umshiang Double Decker, with two levels near Nongriat, is one of the most notable examples of this bioengineering.
