Q. Discuss the urban planning and architecture of the Harappan Civilization. How does it reflect the socio-economic conditions of that time?

The urban planning and architecture of the Harappan Civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, were highly advanced and reflected the socio-economic conditions of the time in several ways:

Urban Planning:

• Grid Pattern: Cities were laid out in a grid pattern, with streets running north-south and east-west.
• Two-Tiered Structure: Cities had a citadel for administrative or religious activities and a lower town for residential purposes.
• Drainage System: A sophisticated drainage system with covered sewers and drains in every house indicates a high priority for hygiene.
• Public Works: The presence of large public structures like the Great Bath and granaries suggests a well-organized society with communal activities.

Architecture:

• Standardized Bricks: The use of standardized kiln-fired bricks for construction indicates a high level of uniformity and control.
• Non-Residential Buildings: Large non-residential buildings point to specialized activities and a division of labour.
• Worker Quarters: Separate quarters for workers reflect an early understanding of urban space and social organization.

Socio-Economic Reflections:

• Centralized Administration: The uniformity in urban planning and architecture suggests a strong centralized administration.
• Economic Activities: The presence of granaries and dockyards indicates agricultural surplus and trade activities.
• Social Stratification: The division of cities into citadels and lower towns may reflect social stratification.
• Technological Advancement: The advanced construction techniques imply a society with skilled labour and knowledge of engineering.

The Harappan Civilization’s urban planning and architecture were not only functional but also indicative of a society that was economically prosperous, socially stratified, and technologically advanced for its time.