Question

Discuss the town planning system of Harappan civilization.

Hint:

The Harappan town planning system was highly advanced, featuring a grid layout, an effective drainage system, and standardized building materials, making it one of the earliest examples of urban planning.

Answer 1

The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, is renowned for its remarkable town planning system, which is considered one of the earliest examples of urban planning. The Harappans developed cities that were well-organized and followed specific principles. Below are key features of the Harappan town planning system: Step 1: Grid System.
Harappan cities, such as Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa, were built following a grid system. Streets were laid out in a rectangular pattern, with main streets intersecting at right angles. This grid-like pattern made the cities organized and allowed for efficient movement and drainage.
Step 2: Well-Defined Streets and Lanes.
The streets were wide and straight, with smaller lanes branching off the main roads. The streets were divided into blocks, each containing houses or public buildings. This layout helped in the efficient use of space and facilitated smooth transportation and communication.
Step 3: Drainage System.
One of the most impressive features of Harappan town planning was the advanced drainage system. Each house had its own private drain connected to the main sewer lines that ran along the streets. This sewer system helped in maintaining hygiene and sanitation, which was remarkable for its time.
Step 4: Citadel and Lower Towns.
Harappan cities were generally divided into two sections: the Citadel and the Lower Town. The Citadel was a raised area, typically where public buildings, granaries, and possibly the residences of the elite were located. The Lower Town was where common people lived and engaged in economic activities. This division of space reflected the social organization of Harappan society.
Step 5: Use of Uniform Building Materials.
The Harappans used standardized baked bricks for constructing buildings. This uniformity in building materials suggests a well-organized system of planning and construction, where measurements and proportions were standardized.