Question 98 from UPSC CSE 2015 - Geography

Question

In a particular region in India, the local people train the roots of living trees into robust bridges across the streams. As time passes, these bridges become stronger. These unique 'living root bridges' are found in

A

Meghalaya

B

Himachal Pradesh

C

Jharkhand

D

Tamil Nadu

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: A. Meghalaya

Strategy: Identify the unique cultural and ecological practice of using living tree roots to form bridges. Associate this practice specifically with the Khasi and Jaintia tribes of Meghalaya to select the correct answer.

Key Info: Living root bridges are a distinctive form of bioengineering found in Meghalaya, mainly in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. This practice, indigenous to the Khasi and Jaintia peoples, is a response to the region's high rainfall, which causes frequent river flooding and makes conventional bridges unsustainable.

These natural marvels are grown using the aerial roots of the Ficus elastica (Indian rubber tree). The roots are guided over decades across streams and rivers, often with the help of hollowed-out bamboo or betel nut trunks.

Key characteristics:
- They take 15–20 years to become fully functional.
- They can last for several centuries, strengthening as the roots mature.
- The best-known examples include bridges in Cherrapunji, Nongriat, and Mawlynnong.

This method showcases traditional ecological knowledge and forest management unique to Northeast India and is not found in Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, or Tamil Nadu.

Answer

Option B: Himachal Pradesh

Answer

Option C: Jharkhand

Answer

Option D: Tamil Nadu