Why in news?
- New research investigates the Jing kieng jri or living root bridges structures and proposes to integrate them in modern architecture around the world. (“Baubotanik” is a field of research that promotes the use of plants as living building materials in structures).
About the bridges:
- Living root bridges (also known as Jing Kieng Jri) are the aerial bridges that are built by weaving and manipulating the roots of the Ficus elastica or the Indian rubber tree.
- These have been serving as connectors for generations in Meghalaya.
- The bridges are made and maintained by individuals, families and communities from the indigenous Khasi and Jaintia people.
- Spanning between 15 and 250 feet, the bridges are primarily a means to cross streams and rivers and are world-famous tourist attractions.
- The two most popular tourist spots are- Riwai Root Bridge and Umshiang Double Decker Bridge.
