History Indus Valley Civilization Questions Long
The urban planning and infrastructure of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, two major cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, were remarkably advanced for their time. These cities were built around 2600-1900 BCE and were characterized by their well-organized layout, sophisticated drainage systems, and impressive architectural structures.
One of the most striking features of the urban planning in Harappa and Mohenjo-daro was the grid-like street layout. The cities were divided into rectangular blocks, with streets running parallel and perpendicular to each other, creating a well-structured and organized urban environment. The streets were wide and well-maintained, indicating a high level of civic planning and management.
The infrastructure of these cities was also highly developed. Both Harappa and Mohenjo-daro had an advanced system of underground drainage. The cities were equipped with a network of interconnected drains and sewers, which were built with baked clay bricks and covered with stone slabs. These drains efficiently carried away waste and rainwater, ensuring cleanliness and sanitation within the cities.
The houses in Harappa and Mohenjo-daro were built using standardized bricks, indicating a uniformity in construction techniques. The houses were typically two or three stories high, made of mud bricks, and had flat roofs. The buildings were constructed around courtyards, with rooms arranged around these central spaces. The houses also had private wells and bathrooms, suggesting a high level of urban planning and provision of basic amenities.
Public buildings and structures were also an integral part of the urban planning in these cities. Mohenjo-daro, for example, had a large central citadel, which was a raised platform with monumental structures, including a granary and a Great Bath. The Great Bath was a large, well-built structure with steps leading down to a pool, possibly used for ritual bathing or as a public water tank.
Furthermore, both cities had a number of public wells, indicating a well-organized water supply system. These wells were strategically located throughout the cities, ensuring easy access to clean water for the residents.
In terms of trade and commerce, Harappa and Mohenjo-daro had well-defined market areas. These marketplaces were located near the city gates and were surrounded by shops and workshops. The presence of standardized weights and measures suggests a regulated trade system.
Overall, the urban planning and infrastructure of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro were highly advanced for their time. The grid-like street layout, sophisticated drainage systems, well-designed houses, and public structures demonstrate the level of organization, engineering skills, and civic planning that existed in the Indus Valley Civilization. These cities serve as a testament to the remarkable achievements of this ancient civilization in urban development and infrastructure.