Shillong, February 6 : A media team from Karnataka interacted with Hally War, eminent environmentalist and custodian of indigenous bioengineering practices, during a visit to Siej village, Sohra in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. The interaction was held as part of a Press Tour organised by the Press Information Bureau, Government of India. Hally War was conferred the Padma Shri Award, as announced on the eve of Republic Day, 2026.
On the fifth day of the Press Tour, media representatives gained first-hand insights into the life, work and legacy of Hally War, who has dedicated his life to preserving and strengthening the traditional Khasi practice of constructing living root bridges – an extraordinary example of sustainable indigenous bioengineering.
Hally War has maintained a deep and lifelong bond with nature. He began learning the technique of shaping living root bridges at around the age of ten, under the guidance of his father and grandfather. Now around 69 years old, he continues to actively work on strengthening and maintaining the living root bridge with remarkable dedication and enthusiasm.
Explaining the unique process, Hally War said that when the roots of trees protrude, they are slowly guided and pulled through hollowed bamboo or tree trunks, allowing the roots to merge naturally over time. This patient and gradual process ensures the strength, stability and longevity of the bridge.
Responding to queries from the media, he stated that it took nearly 50 years to shape the bridge into its present form and that he continues to work on it even today to make it stronger and better. He emphasised that the living root bridge was built collectively with the active participation of the local community.
Expressing gratitude, Hally War said that he is thankful to the Almighty for blessing him with good health and strength to carry forward this work and prayed for the ability to further improve the bridge for the benefit of future generations. He also expressed his sincere gratitude to the State Government and the Government of India for recognising his efforts by conferring upon him the Padma Shri Award.
Speaking on the occasion, his son Willingson said that his father’s work has been a source of inspiration since childhood and that he too has taken up the practice of building living root bridges. He noted that due to heavy rainfall in the region, these bridges play a crucial role during the monsoon season and in emergency situations, serving as vital links between villages.
During the visit, Hally War, his wife Philaris Khylep, and his son Willingson were felicitated by officials of the Press Information Bureau along with Karnataka media representatives.
The media delegation also witnessed the scenic natural beauty of Siej village, set amid steep hill ranges, and observed the remarkable ecological strength and aesthetic appeal of the living root bridge – an enduring symbol of sustainable development, community participation and harmony with nature.
The team were accompanied by officials of DIPR Meghalaya during the visit.
