Hydraulic Structure Constructed by Iltutmish for Supplying Water to Siri Fort Area:

• Tank in Hauz Khas, Delhi: Iltutmish, the Sultan of Delhi, constructed a tank in Hauz Khas in the 14th century to supply water to the Siri Fort area.


• Water harvesting at Sringaverapura near Allahabad: This hydraulic structure is unrelated to Iltutmish and the Siri Fort area.


• Bhopal Lake: Bhopal Lake is not associated with Iltutmish or the Siri Fort area.


• Irrigation work at Nagarjunakonda: This irrigation work is not connected to Iltutmish or the Siri Fort area.

Therefore, the correct answer is C: Tank in Hauz Khas, Delhi.

The correct answer is option 'C' - The tank in Hauz Khas, Delhi.

Iltutmish, the Sultan of Delhi from 1211 to 1236, constructed the tank in Hauz Khas in the 14th century to supply water to the Siri Fort area.

The tank in Hauz Khas is an architectural marvel and an important hydraulic structure built during the medieval period in Delhi. It served as a reservoir to store rainwater and supply it to the surrounding areas.

Here is a detailed explanation of the construction and significance of the tank in Hauz Khas:

1. Construction:
- The tank in Hauz Khas was constructed using the natural depression of the land and was fed by the waters of the Yamuna River.
- The tank covered an area of approximately 100 acres, making it one of the largest artificial reservoirs in Delhi.
- It was built with stone masonry and had steps leading down to the water level for people to access it easily.
- Surrounding the tank, several structures were built, including a madrasa (Islamic school), a mosque, and tombs.

2. Water Supply:
- The primary purpose of constructing the tank was to ensure a steady supply of water to the Siri Fort area, which was a bustling urban settlement during that time.
- The tank would collect rainwater during the monsoon season and retain it throughout the year.
- The stored water was then used for various purposes, such as irrigation, drinking water, and other domestic needs of the population residing in the vicinity.

3. Cultural Significance:
- The tank in Hauz Khas served not only as a water source but also as a social and cultural hub.
- The surrounding structures, including the madrasa and mosque, attracted scholars and students who would gather there for learning and religious activities.
- Many notable Sufi saints and scholars of the time were associated with the tank, making it a center of intellectual and spiritual pursuits.

In conclusion, Iltutmish constructed the tank in Hauz Khas in the 14th century to supply water to the Siri Fort area. This hydraulic structure served as a reservoir to store rainwater and provided water for various purposes. It also held cultural and religious significance, attracting scholars and serving as a hub for intellectual and spiritual activities.