Points to Remember:
- Harappan Civilization’s urban planning.
- Advanced water management techniques.
- Comparison of different Harappan cities.
Introduction:
The Indus Valley Civilization (IVC), also known as the Harappan Civilization, flourished in the Bronze Age (3300-1300 BCE) and is renowned for its sophisticated urban planning and remarkably advanced infrastructure. One of the most striking aspects of this civilization was its efficient water harvesting and management systems, crucial for sustaining large populations in relatively arid regions. While several Harappan cities exhibited advanced water management, one stands out for its particularly impressive and unique system. This question asks us to identify that city from the given options: Mohenjo-daro, Dholavira, Kalibangan, and Ropar. The required approach is factual, drawing upon archaeological evidence and established knowledge about the IVC.
Body:
Water Management in Harappan Cities:
The Harappan civilization demonstrated a remarkable understanding of hydrology and engineering. Their cities featured well-planned drainage systems, reservoirs, and water channels, indicating a sophisticated approach to water management. This was essential for managing both wastewater and providing a reliable water supply for domestic and agricultural purposes.
Comparing the Options:
Mohenjo-daro: Mohenjo-daro possessed a sophisticated drainage system, with covered drains running along the streets. However, its water harvesting system, while advanced for its time, was not as uniquely impressive as that of Dholavira.
Dholavira: Dholavira stands out for its exceptionally well-preserved and unique water management system. Archaeological evidence reveals a multi-tiered system of reservoirs, dams, and channels designed to collect and store rainwater, even during periods of drought. This system included a series of interconnected reservoirs of varying sizes, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of water storage and distribution. The city’s location in a relatively arid region makes its water management system even more remarkable.
Kalibangan: Kalibangan, while showcasing evidence of agricultural practices, doesn’t exhibit the same scale or complexity of water management as Dholavira. Its water management systems were more localized.
Ropar: Ropar also possessed a drainage system, but it was less elaborate than that found in Mohenjo-daro or Dholavira.
Conclusion:
In summary, while several Harappan cities displayed advanced water management techniques, Dholavira (B) is particularly notable for its impressive and unique system. Its multi-tiered reservoirs, dams, and channels represent a high level of engineering skill and a deep understanding of water resource management, crucial for the survival and prosperity of the city in a challenging environment. The sophisticated water management systems of the Harappan civilization highlight their advanced urban planning and engineering capabilities, offering valuable lessons for contemporary water resource management strategies. Further research and analysis of these sites continue to reveal the ingenuity and foresight of the Harappan people, underscoring the importance of preserving and learning from their remarkable achievements. The study of these ancient water systems can inform sustainable water management practices in modern contexts, promoting holistic development and environmental sustainability.
JPSC Notes brings Prelims and Mains programs for JPSC Prelims and JPSC Mains Exam preparation. Various Programs initiated by JPSC Notes are as follows:-- JPSC Mains Tests and Notes Program 2025
- JPSC Prelims Exam 2020- Test Series and Notes Program 2025
- JPSC Prelims and Mains Tests Series and Notes Program 2025
- JPSC Detailed Complete Prelims Notes 2025