UPSC Prelims 2015 · GS Paper I
Question 69: Geography
In a particular region in India, the local people train the roots of living trees into robust bridges across the streams. As the time passes, these bridges become stronger. These unique 'living root bridges' are found in
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (a).
Living root bridges are found in Meghalaya, especially in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills around Cherrapunji. The Khasi people guide the aerial roots of the rubber fig (Ficus elastica) across streams and rivers, and the bridges grow stronger over time. Some are over a century old. Remember: Meghalaya, rubber fig, living bridges.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Correct: the Khasi and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya have the root bridges.
- (b) Himachal Pradesh has no living root bridge tradition.
- (c) Jharkhand is not known for living root bridges.
- (d) Tamil Nadu is not known for living root bridges.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2015, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.