History Indus Valley Civilization Questions Long
The drainage system of the Indus Valley cities was an impressive feat of engineering and urban planning. It played a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of the cities, as well as managing the monsoon rains and preventing flooding.
The cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, such as Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, were built on a grid pattern with well-planned streets and houses. The drainage system was an integral part of this urban planning, with a network of well-constructed drains and sewers running beneath the streets.
The main feature of the drainage system was the use of covered drains made of bricks or stone. These drains were carefully laid out in a systematic manner, ensuring that every house was connected to the main sewer line. The drains were built with a slight slope to allow the flow of wastewater towards the main sewer.
The main sewer lines were larger in size and made of baked bricks. They were designed to carry both household wastewater and rainwater away from the city. The sewer lines were connected to large underground chambers, known as soak pits or cesspits, which acted as sedimentation tanks. These chambers allowed solid waste to settle down while the liquid waste continued to flow towards the river.
To prevent the accumulation of waste and blockages, the drains were periodically cleaned by the city's sanitation workers. Archaeological evidence suggests that the drains were flushed with water to maintain their functionality.
The drainage system also had provisions for managing the monsoon rains. The streets were built slightly higher than the surrounding areas, allowing rainwater to flow towards the drains. Additionally, the houses were constructed with raised platforms to protect them from flooding.
The efficient drainage system of the Indus Valley cities not only ensured the cleanliness of the urban areas but also contributed to the overall health and well-being of the inhabitants. It is a testament to the advanced engineering skills and urban planning of the Indus Valley Civilization.
In conclusion, the drainage system of the Indus Valley cities was a well-designed and sophisticated network of covered drains and sewers. It played a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness, managing monsoon rains, and preventing flooding. The system reflects the advanced engineering and urban planning skills of the Indus Valley Civilization.