Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi Backs UNESCO Tag For Meghalaya’s Living Root Bridges

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised Meghalaya’s iconic living root bridges, describing them as a remarkable example of harmony between people and nature.

Speaking during the 135th episode of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi urged citizens to value the country’s unique natural heritage and support efforts to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for the bridges.

PM Modi described Meghalaya’s living root bridges as unique natural treasures, crafted by guiding rubber tree roots across streams over several decades.

Calling them ‘living bridges’, PM Modi said the structures continue to grow stronger with time and reflect the creativity, patience and deep respect for nature shown by the people of Meghalaya. He added that the bridges demonstrate how communities can work in harmony with nature and preserve traditions for future generations.

PM Modi said India has applied for UNESCO World Heritage status for Meghalaya’s living root bridges. He praised local communities for preserving the ecosystem, documenting the bridges and maintaining more than 120 of these unique natural structures.

PM Modi also praised Padma awardee Hally War for dedicating more than five decades to preserving the living root bridges, describing his lifelong commitment as an inspiration for the nation.

Urging wider public participation, the Prime Minister encouraged people who have visited the living root bridges to share their photographs on social media. He said such efforts would inspire more people to discover, appreciate and help preserve Meghalaya’s unique natural heritage for generations to come.

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