Mapping of the Living-root-bridges of the Khasi Community: Conserving Meghalaya’s Intangible Heritage through the Legal and Empirical Lens

Abstract

This study examines the preservation of ecological heritage by focusing on the living-root bridges within the Khasi community in Meghalaya. It scrutinizes the effectiveness of current heritage conservation laws and their practical implications. Emphasizing a bottom-up approach, this research intends to protect living heritage sites by drawing lessons from indigenous practices and grassroots experiences. The research highlights the threats posed by unsustainable tourism, deforestation, and urban encroachment on these cultural and ecological landmarks. Through comprehensive field studies in the East Khasi Hills and documentation of customary practices, the project advocates for enhanced legal and policy measures. The objective is to establish robust frameworks that ensure the conservation of these unique heritage sites, securing their survival against growing environmental and societal pressures. This initiative underscores the importance of integrating local knowledge and legal mechanisms in the stewardship of ecological and cultural heritage.