At 2000 meters above sea level, hidden in the north-eastern heart of India is the town of Cherrapunjee (land of the Oranges). This place, which is part of the state of Meghalaya (whose name means "abode of clouds") is a humid and mountainous area covered with sub-tropical forests. Defined as the wettest place on earth, with about 25 meters of rain in a year, it is crossed by waterways whose floods do not seem to be supported by any conventional bridge. The inhabitants of this place, however, have been able to strive to invent a surprising system, unique in the world.
They are the living bridges of the Cherrapunjee. Incredible structures built by the populations of the Khasi, through the intertwining of the hanging roots of a particular rubber tree, the Ficus Elasticus. A job that often involves the engagement of more than one generation and an extraordinary ability to bind the vines and blades of grass able to act as support for the growth of the roots. These are inserted into hollow logs (usually betel and bamboo) which will guide them until they reach the other side of the river. The bamboo rots in about 6-8 years, leaving the roots free, which will then be able to bear the necessary weight.
Unlike wood trunks, which rot quickly, these bridges are destined to strengthen over time, along with plant growth. The bridges tend to reach a sufficient solidity in about 15 years, after which it is paved with bamboo or beaten earth and stones and seems to support the contemporary weight of 50 people.
These bridges were rediscovered by Rayen, a former Chennay banker twenty years ago. It was he who mapped the area to organize excursions in which it is possible to visit them.
The most striking natural spectacle is probably the two-level Umshiang Double Decker Root Bridge which boasts an age of 200 years. The roots of a single tree cross the river on two levels. The upper level reaches 70 feet in height.
It's an incredible example of bio-engineering of truly unusual beauty. Enough to have been recognized as a world heritage by Unesco in 2009. These radicular bridges, having a life of about 500 years and reaching a distance of 75 meters, such as the Ummunoi Root Bridges, a very popular attraction, also known to be the oldest living bridge in the region. Built at a height of 1400 feet, this bridge is 74 m long.
We take the opportunity to report to you also the splendid work done by photographer Amos Chapple in documenting these incredible works. You can find HERE the entire, highly enjoyable photoshoot he has realized.
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