The Harappan Civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization and Sindhu Sabhyata, was a bronze-age civilization that existed between 3300 BC to 1900 BC. One of the most remarkable features of this civilization was its urban planning. The cities of the Harappan Civilization were built using a unique grid system and had sophisticated water management systems, public buildings, and drainage systems. In this article, we will explore the urban planning of the Harappan Civilization in detail.
The Grid System of Harappan Civilization :
One of the most unique features of the Harappan Civilization's urban planning was the grid system. The cities of the Harappan Civilization were built using a grid of streets that were oriented in a north-south and east-west direction. This grid system was used to divide the cities into distinct blocks, with each block being used for a specific purpose, such as residential, commercial, or industrial.
The grid system used in the Harappan Civilization was incredibly advanced for its time. It allowed for efficient use of space, and ensured that each block was evenly sized and located in a strategic location within the city. The use of a grid system also made it easier for people to navigate through the cities, which were often large and complex.
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The Citadel and the Lower City of Harappan Civilization:
Another unique feature of the urban planning of the Harappan Civilization was the division of the cities into the Citadel and the Lower City. The Citadel was a fortified area that was located in the center of the city and was used for religious and administrative purposes. The Lower City, on the other hand, was the area outside of the Citadel, and was used for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes.
The Citadel was often located on higher ground than the Lower City, which allowed for a better vantage point and improved defense capabilities. The division of the cities into the Citadel and the Lower City also allowed for a clear separation of different functions within the city, which helped to maintain order and facilitate trade and commerce.
The Great Bath of Harappan Civilization:
One of the most impressive structures of the Harappan Civilization was the Great Bath. This structure was found in the city of Mohenjo-daro, and was a large public bath that was used for religious and ceremonial purposes.
The Great Bath was an advanced engineering feat, and was built using a sophisticated water management system. The structure was lined with bricks that were waterproofed with bitumen, and was filled with water using a system of channels and drains. The Great Bath also had a complex drainage system that allowed for the water to be emptied and refilled as needed.
The urban planning of the Great Bath was not only impressive from an engineering perspective, but also from a social and cultural perspective. The Great Bath was a place where people of all social classes could come together and engage in communal activities, which helped to foster a sense of community and unity within the city.
Urban Planning of Dholavira:
Another example of the remarkable urban planning of the Harappan Civilization can be seen in the city of Dholavira. This city was located in present-day Gujarat, India, and was built around 2500 BC.
The urban planning of Dholavira was unique in that it featured a series of reservoirs and dams that were used to manage water resources in the city. These reservoirs and dams allowed for the city to be self-sufficient in terms of water, even during periods of drought or low rainfall.
In addition to the sophisticated water management system, Dholavira also had a complex system of public buildings and administrative structures. These buildings were used for a variety of purposes, such as religious ceremonies, public meetings, and administrative functions.
Sanitation and Drainage Systems of Harappan Civilization:
The Harappan Civilization had sophisticated drainage systems that were designed to prevent the spread of disease and maintain cleanliness within the cities.
The drainage systems of the Harappan Civilization were built using a combination of channels, drains, and manholes. These systems were designed to collect and transport waste water and sewage away from the city and into nearby rivers or agricultural fields. The sophisticated drainage systems of the Harappan Civilization allowed for the cities to remain clean and healthy, and helped to prevent the spread of diseases such as cholera and dysentery.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the urban planning of the Harappan Civilization was remarkably advanced for its time, and was characterized by the use of a grid system, the division of cities into the Citadel and the Lower City, the construction of public buildings and administrative structures, sophisticated water management systems, and sanitation and drainage systems. The cities of the Harappan Civilization were among the most advanced in the world during their time, and the urban planning of these cities continues to inspire and impress people today. By studying the urban planning of the Harappan Civilization, we can gain a deeper understanding of how this ancient civilization operated, and learn valuable lessons about city planning and development that can be applied to modern cities.
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