Shillong, April 3: Patrick A. Rogers, an American travel writer and researcher known for his work on Meghalaya’s living root bridges, died of cardiac arrest while visiting a village in East Khasi Hills district, officials confirmed Thursday.

Rogers, who passed away on March 21 at Shnongpdeng near Dawki, had dedicated years to studying and promoting Meghalaya’s unique bio-engineered root bridges. He led the ‘Living Root Bridge Project,’ aimed at mapping and preserving these structures, and authored The Green Unknown: Travels in the Khasi Hills, which drew international attention to the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma expressed grief over Rogers’ death in a post on X, noting his deep connection with the state and its people. “Patrick was not just a visitor to Meghalaya; he became deeply connected to our land, our forests, and our people,” Sangma said. “Through his dedication, writings, and years of exploration, he played an important role in bringing global attention to the living root bridges and helping the world recognise their value.”

Rogers’ funeral is scheduled to take place today, April 3.