Awesome bioengineering: the living bridges of Cherrapunji
More pictures and info are available on the Living Root Bridges blog.
| In north east India, bridges aren't built - they're grown! The rainforests of Cherrapunji are credited with being one of the wettest places on Earth, and timber bridges would quickly rot. Locals have an innovative solution - grow bridges out of living trees. Like many in the banyan family, the rubber fig has secondary roots that grow above the soil surface. By guiding these roots across chasms, villagers can slowly grow a strong, permanent bridge. |
Sal
When the Roads and Paths end, learn to guide yourself through the wilderness
Beyond the Path