Q.1. Write a note on the town planning of Harappan Civilization period.

The town planning of the Harappan Civilization stands as a remarkable achievement in ancient urban development. Let’s explore its features:

1. Grid-Based Layout:
   • Harappan cities, such as Harappa, Mohenjodaro, and Kalibangan, followed a grid-based town planning system.
   • Streets and alleys intersected almost at right angles, dividing the city into numerous rectangular blocks.
2. Citadel and Residential Area:
   • Each city had a fortress (citadel) built on a tall mud-brick pedestal.
   • The residential area lay to the east of the citadel and was surrounded by a massive brick wall.
3. Street System and Infrastructure:
   • Well-arranged streets formed a network of narrow lanes.
   • Drainage System: Harappans had an advanced drainage and sanitation system.
     • Each house had horizontal and vertical drains.
     • House drains connected with road drains.
     • Underground drains for streets were covered with stone slabs.
     • Soak pits were constructed using bricks.
   • Water Supply: Public wells were present in every street, and individual houses had their own wells.
   • Street Lights: A system of street lights existed for nighttime security.
   • Waste Disposal: Specific places were designated for trash and waste material.
4. Building Materials and Architecture:
   • No stone-built houses: Harappans primarily used burnt bricks and sun-dried bricks.
   • Solid Staircases: Staircases in large buildings were solid.
   • Flat Roofs: Roofs were flat and made of wood.
5. Notable Structures:
   • Great Granary: Harappa had a great granary measuring 169 feet by 135 feet. Attached to it were two-roomed tenements with a common courtyard.
   • Great Bath: The Great Public Bath at Mohenjodaro measured 180 feet by 108 feet. It had a bathing pool with galleries and rooms around it.
6. Urban Planning and Modern Concepts:
   • Harappan town planning hints at modern-day concepts:
     • Bathing Pools: Similar to swimming pools.
     • Granaries: Resemble contemporary storehouses.
   • Overall, Harappan town planning reflects their scientific approach and urban lifestyle.

In summary, the Harappan civilization’s town planning was highly developed, emphasizing sanitation, infrastructure, and efficient use of space.