History Indus Valley Civilization Questions Medium
The evidence of town planning in the Indus Valley Civilization is quite extensive and showcases the advanced urban planning and architectural skills of the civilization. Some of the key pieces of evidence include:
1. Grid System: The cities of the Indus Valley Civilization were laid out in a grid-like pattern, with streets and lanes intersecting at right angles. This systematic layout can be seen in cities like Mohenjo-daro and Harappa.
2. Well-Planned Streets: The streets of the Indus Valley cities were well-planned and constructed. They were wide, straight, and made of baked bricks, indicating a high level of engineering and urban planning.
3. Drainage System: One of the most remarkable features of the Indus Valley Civilization is its advanced drainage system. The cities had an elaborate network of underground drains and sewers, which were built with precision and covered with stone slabs. This system ensured efficient disposal of waste and maintained cleanliness in the cities.
4. Public Buildings: The presence of public buildings in the cities suggests a well-organized society. These buildings include granaries, public baths, assembly halls, and even a Great Bath in Mohenjo-daro. The construction of such structures required careful planning and architectural expertise.
5. Residential Areas: The residential areas in the Indus Valley cities were also well-planned. Houses were built in a standardized manner, with similar layouts and amenities. They often had multiple rooms, courtyards, and even private wells or bathrooms.
6. Citadel and Lower Town: Many Indus Valley cities had a distinct citadel or acropolis, which was a raised platform or fortified area. The citadel was usually located on higher ground and housed important buildings like administrative centers or temples. The lower town, surrounding the citadel, was where most of the population lived.
7. Uniformity in Construction: The use of standardized bricks and construction techniques across different cities of the civilization indicates a centralized authority overseeing the planning and construction processes. This uniformity suggests a well-organized system of governance and administration.
Overall, the evidence of town planning in the Indus Valley Civilization highlights their advanced urban infrastructure, engineering skills, and a well-organized society. The systematic layout, efficient drainage system, public buildings, and standardized construction techniques all contribute to our understanding of the civilization's remarkable urban planning abilities.