Features of Town Planning in Harappan Society:

The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley civilization, flourished around 2600 to 1900 BCE in the northwestern regions of the Indian subcontinent. One of the striking aspects of this ancient civilization was its well-planned and organized urban settlements. Here are the key features of town planning in the Harappan society:

1. Grid System:
The cities of the Harappan civilization were meticulously planned on a grid system, with streets and lanes laid out in a precise pattern. The streets were straight and laid out at right angles to one another, forming a crisscross pattern. This layout facilitated easy navigation and efficient movement of people and goods within the city.

2. Well-Defined City Walls:
The cities were typically enclosed by sturdy walls made of baked bricks. These walls served as a protective barrier against external threats and provided security to the inhabitants. The presence of fortified city walls suggests a well-organized defense system.

3. Sophisticated Drainage System:
The Harappans had an advanced system of underground drainage. Each house was connected to the main drainage system through carefully constructed channels. The streets were also equipped with covered drains to manage wastewater and maintain cleanliness. This sophisticated drainage system indicates an understanding of public health and sanitation.

4. Public Buildings:
The urban centers of the Harappan civilization boasted impressive public buildings. These included granaries, warehouses, marketplaces, and public baths. The granaries were likely used for storing surplus food, indicating a level of agricultural productivity and economic organization.

5. Residential Areas:
The cities were divided into distinct residential areas. Houses were built using standardized bricks, often with two or three stories. The houses were equipped with private wells for water supply and had separate bathing areas. The presence of separate residential areas suggests a hierarchical social structure.

6. Presence of Citadels:
Many Harappan cities featured citadels, which were elevated platforms or fortified areas. The citadels were often located on higher ground and served as administrative and/or religious centers. The presence of citadels suggests centralized governance and a focus on religious practices.

7. Planned Entrance Points:
The cities had well-defined entrance points, often equipped with guardrooms. These entrance points controlled access to the city and provided a means to monitor and regulate trade and other activities.

8. Uniformity in Architecture:
The buildings within the cities showcased a remarkable level of uniformity in architectural style. This suggests a centralized authority involved in urban planning and construction.

9. Extensive Trade Networks:
The well-planned urban centers of the Harappan civilization facilitated trade and commerce. The presence of marketplaces and warehouses points to a highly developed economy and extensive trade networks.

The town planning of the Harappan society reflects a high degree of organization, foresight, and technical prowess. The grid-based layout, sophisticated drainage system, and presence of public buildings and citadels are indicative of a well-structured and prosperous civilization. The features of town planning in the Harappan society provide valuable insights into the socio-economic and cultural aspects of this ancient civilization.