Question

Consider the following statements regarding Harappan culture and choose correct option:
a) The drainage system was simple and unplanned
b) The most characteristic element was the development of urban centres
c) The settlement is divided into two sections as the Citadel and Lower Town
d) Roads were not based on grid pattern
Of these:

• A. Only (a)
• B. (a) and (b)
• C. (b) and (c)
• D. (c) and (d)

Hint:

When studying the Harappan Civilization, always focus on its urban characteristics: the grid-pattern of streets, the advanced drainage system, and the division of cities into the Citadel and Lower Town. These features frequently appear in exam questions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Harappan Civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, is renowned for its advanced urban planning, which is a key feature that distinguishes it from other contemporary civilizations.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze each statement:
a) The drainage system was simple and unplanned: This is incorrect. The Harappan drainage system was one of the most sophisticated in the ancient world. It was well-planned, with drains from houses connected to larger street drains, all covered and equipped with manholes for cleaning.
b) The most characteristic element was the development of urban centres: This is correct. The Harappan civilization was primarily an urban culture. Cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-daro were meticulously planned urban centers with advanced infrastructure.
c) The settlement is divided into two sections as the Citadel and Lower Town: This is correct. Most Harappan cities were divided into at least two parts: the Citadel, a smaller, higher area likely used for public buildings and administrative or religious functions, and the Lower Town, a larger area for residential housing.
d) Roads were not based on grid pattern: This is incorrect. The streets in Harappan cities were laid out in a grid pattern, intersecting at right angles, which indicates a high level of planning.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Based on the analysis, statements (b) and (c) are correct descriptions of Harappan culture. Therefore, the correct option is (iii) in the original image, which corresponds to option (C).