Describe the urban planning and infrastructure of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro.

Ancient Civilizations And Their Locations Questions



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Describe the urban planning and infrastructure of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro.

The urban planning and infrastructure of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, two major cities of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, were highly advanced for their time. Both cities were carefully planned and designed with a grid-like layout.

In Harappa, the city was divided into different sectors, each with its own specific purpose. The city had a fortified citadel, which served as a religious and administrative center. The citadel was surrounded by a massive defensive wall, indicating the importance of security. The rest of the city was divided into residential areas, with houses built in a uniform manner. Streets were laid out in a grid pattern, intersecting at right angles, and were wide enough to accommodate carts and pedestrians.

Similarly, Mohenjo-daro had a well-organized layout. The city was divided into two major parts: the Citadel and the Lower City. The Citadel was elevated and housed important buildings, including a large public bath, granaries, and a Great Hall. The Lower City consisted of residential areas, with houses built using standardized bricks. Streets were laid out in a grid-like pattern, with a sophisticated drainage system running beneath them. The city also had a complex water management system, with wells and public baths providing access to clean water.

Both Harappa and Mohenjo-daro had advanced infrastructure. They had an elaborate system of underground drainage, with covered drains running beneath the streets to carry away waste and rainwater. The cities also had public wells and baths, indicating a focus on hygiene and sanitation. The buildings were made of baked bricks, and some structures had multiple stories, showcasing architectural advancements.

Overall, the urban planning and infrastructure of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro demonstrate the high level of sophistication and organization achieved by the ancient Indus Valley Civilization.