Port City of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Lothal

Lothal is the correct answer as it was the port city of the Indus Valley Civilisation. Located in present-day Gujarat, India, Lothal was an important trading center during the ancient times. Let's explore more about Lothal and why it was considered a port city.

About Lothal:
- Lothal was one of the major cities of the Indus Valley Civilisation, which existed from approximately 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE.
- It is located on the banks of the Bhogava River, a tributary of the Sabarmati River.
- The site was discovered in 1954 by archaeologist S. R. Rao and has since been extensively excavated, revealing important insights into the Indus Valley Civilisation.

Reasons why Lothal was considered a port city:
1. Geographical Location: Lothal was strategically located near the Gulf of Khambhat (Cambay), making it an ideal location for maritime trade.
2. Harbor and Dockyard: The city had a well-constructed dockyard, which was connected to the river through a channel. This allowed ships to sail directly into the city, making it a port.
3. Trade Network: Lothal had a thriving trade network with other cities of the Indus Valley Civilisation, as well as with regions outside the civilisation. It was an important center for the trade of goods such as beads, semi-precious stones, ceramics, and metal objects.
4. Warehouse and Seals: The presence of large warehouses and seals with Indus script at Lothal suggests that it was a hub for storing and distributing goods brought through maritime trade.
5. Boat Building Industry: Excavations have revealed evidence of a boat-building industry at Lothal. The presence of a shipyard and the discovery of a well-preserved dockyard with a basin further confirm its maritime importance.

Conclusion:
Lothal's geographical location, its harbor and dockyard, its extensive trade network, presence of warehouses and seals, and evidence of a boat-building industry make it the port city of the Indus Valley Civilisation. Its significance lies not just in being a trading center but also in the advanced urban planning and engineering techniques employed by the Indus Valley people. The discovery and study of Lothal have provided valuable insights into the maritime trade and economic activities of the Indus Valley Civilisation.