Mohenjo-Daro A Masterpiece of Ancient Urban Planning

Video Source: National Geographic

Mohenjo-Daro: A Masterpiece of Ancient Urban Planning

Mohenjo-Daro, one of the most significant cities of the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) (2600–1900 BCE), was a highly planned urban center located in present-day Sindh, Pakistan. It stood as a testament to the Harappans' advanced knowledge of city planning, sanitation, and architecture, highlighting their well-organized socio-economic structure.

Two Sections of Settlement

Mohenjo-Daro was systematically divided into two primary sections, each serving distinct purposes:

1. Citadel (Smaller but Higher Section)

• Built on a raised, artificially constructed mound, possibly for defense and administrative control.
• Contained key public buildings and structures:
• Great Bath – A large, waterproof, rectangular water tank, possibly used for ritualistic or ceremonial bathing.
• Granary – A vast storage facility, likely used to store surplus grains for distribution.
• Assembly Halls – Large pillared structures, possibly used for public gatherings, governance, or administrative meetings.
• Fire Altars – Indications of religious or ritualistic activities, suggesting the presence of spiritual practices.

2. Lower Town (Larger but Lower Section)

• The main residential and commercial hub of the city, built at a lower level than the Citadel.
• Consisted of well-planned multi-roomed houses, some featuring courtyards and private wells.
• Organized in a grid-pattern layout, with streets intersecting at right angles, dividing the city into well-defined blocks.
• Featured an advanced drainage system, including covered sewers and soak pits, reflecting remarkable urban sanitation.

Town Planning & Architectural Features

• Burnt Brick Construction – Buildings were made using standardized, uniformly sized baked bricks, ensuring structural durability.
• Wide, Straight Roads – Roads were laid in a precise north-south and east-west grid pattern, allowing for smooth movement within the city.
• Underground Drainage System – A highly developed network of brick-lined drains connected to houses, ensuring efficient waste management and sanitation.
• Public Wells & Bathing Areas – Indicating a sophisticated understanding of hygiene and community water management.

Conclusion

Mohenjo-Daro was one of the earliest examples of a meticulously planned city, demonstrating a clear division of administrative, residential, and commercial spaces. Its impressive drainage system, well-structured streets, and monumental buildings highlight the ingenuity and organization of the Indus Valley Civilization. This ancient city remains a symbol of early human achievement in urban development, setting the foundation for future civilizations