Question

Describe the main features of the town planning of the Indus Valley Civilization.

Hint:

For questions on IVC town planning, always mention these three keywords: Grid Pattern, Citadel & Lower Town, and Advanced Drainage System. These are the most distinctive features and are essential for a complete answer.

Answer 1

The Indus Valley Civilization (also known as the Harappan Civilization) is known for its highly advanced urban planning, which was evident in its well-planned cities. The main features of town planning in the Indus Valley Civilization include:

• Grid Pattern of Streets: One of the most striking features of Indus Valley town planning is the grid pattern of streets. Cities like Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, and Dholavira were laid out in a precise grid with streets running at right angles to each other. The streets were often wide and well-organized, facilitating smooth traffic flow.
• Advanced Drainage System: The Indus Valley cities had a remarkably advanced drainage system. Drains and sewers were laid along both sides of the streets, which drained out waste and rainwater to the outer city or into large drainage pits. This system helped in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation, a feature that was advanced for its time.
• Use of Baked Bricks: The construction of buildings in Indus Valley cities was primarily done using baked bricks. These bricks were of uniform size and quality, ensuring durability and the creation of strong, lasting structures. Public buildings, houses, and granaries were all constructed with these standardized bricks.
• Well-Planned Residential Areas: The residential areas were well-planned with houses built along the streets in an orderly manner. Houses were typically single or two-story structures with private courtyards, rooms for storage, and bathrooms. Many houses had private wells for water supply.
• Public Buildings and Granaries: Cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa had large public buildings, including granaries used for storing surplus grain. The granaries were strategically placed, reflecting the importance of agriculture and the need for food storage. These buildings were often located near the city center, indicating their significance in the society.
• Fortifications: Many Indus Valley cities had fortifications or walls surrounding the city. These walls may have served as protection against floods, invasions, or other threats. Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa are examples of cities with these protective walls, providing a sense of security for the residents.
• Well-Defined Public and Private Spaces: The towns were divided into clear public and private spaces. Public buildings like the granaries, baths, and marketplaces were located in central areas, while residential areas were more spread out on the outskirts of the city.
• Use of Drainage Pits and Dustbins: Besides the drainage system, there were dustbins and drainage pits that were installed in various parts of the cities to manage garbage and waste. This reflects the advanced nature of urban management in the civilization.

Conclusion:

The town planning of the Indus Valley Civilization was highly sophisticated and ahead of its time. It included a grid street pattern, an advanced drainage system, standardized construction materials (baked bricks), and organized spaces for residential, public, and administrative use. These features demonstrate the remarkable engineering and urban planning skills of the Indus Valley people.