How does the location of the ancient city of Harappa and mohenjo-daro to their development
The ancient cities of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro were part of the Indus Valley Civilization, which thrived around 2600 to 1900 BCE in what is now modern-day Pakistan and northwest India. The location of these cities played a crucial role in their development.
1. Geographic Advantage: Both Harappa and Mohenjo-daro were situated along the banks of major rivers. Harappa was located near the Ravi River, while Mohenjo-daro was located near the Indus River. These rivers provided a constant water source for irrigation, which was essential for agricultural development. The fertile soils along the riverbanks allowed for the growth of crops, such as wheat and barley, which sustained the population and promoted economic growth.
2. Trade and Communication: The cities' strategic locations along the rivers gave them access to water transportation, facilitating trade and communication. Both Harappa and Mohenjo-daro became major centers for trade of goods such as pottery, textiles, minerals, and agricultural produce. The river networks connected these cities with other urban centers within the Indus Valley Civilization and beyond, enabling the exchange of ideas, technologies, and cultural practices.
3. Natural Defense: The cities were strategically situated on slightly elevated plateaus, providing them with natural defense against floods and attacks. The surrounding rivers acted as barriers, protecting the cities from invasions and providing a sense of security to the inhabitants. This allowed the civilizations to flourish and focus on other aspects of development, including art, architecture, and governance.
4. Urban Planning: The cities were meticulously planned, with well-designed grid systems, sophisticated drainage and sanitation systems, and multi-story buildings. The efficient use of space and infrastructure in both cities reflected a high level of urban planning and organization, which were vital for their success.
In summary, the strategic location of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro along major rivers provided access to water, facilitated trade and communication, offered natural defense, and allowed for efficient urban planning. These factors played a crucial role in the development and prosperity of these ancient cities.