how did the people of the civilizations deal with flooding of the river? Egypt and Indus valleys
The people of ancient Egypt and the Indus Valley civilizations had different methods of dealing with river flooding.
Egypt:
1. Irrigation systems: The Egyptians developed an extensive network of canals, reservoirs, and dikes to control the flow of water from the Nile River. They diverted excess water to flood basins, later using it for irrigation during dry seasons.
2. Flood prediction: The Egyptians had an excellent understanding of the Nile's behavior and were able to forecast flood patterns based on observations. They developed calendars to predict the annual flooding, which helped them plan agriculture and built their civilization around it.
3. Construction of dikes: To protect their villages and farmlands from floodwaters, the Egyptians built dikes along the Nile River. These barriers were made from earth and stones and helped contain the floodwaters, diverting them into predetermined areas.
4. Flood-resistant architecture: Houses in Egypt were often constructed on raised platforms or stilt-like structures to protect them from potential floodwaters. Additionally, the Egyptians built their main structures like temples and palaces on higher ground to reduce the risk of water damage.
Indus Valley:
1. Urban planning: The cities of the Indus Valley civilization, such as Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, were built on a grid system with elevated platforms and streets designed to prevent flooding. Houses were constructed with brick walls and flat roofs to withstand heavy rainfall.
2. Advanced drainage systems: The Indus Valley people developed an elaborate drainage system, consisting of covered drains and sewers that efficiently carried water away from the streets and houses. This helped prevent flooding within the cities.
3. Flood management structures: In some areas, the Indus Valley civilization built embankments and bunds along the riverbanks to control floods. These barriers were constructed using baked bricks and compacted earth to minimize erosion and provide additional protection.
4. Preservation of water: The Indus Valley people also constructed reservoirs or storage tanks called "tanks" throughout their cities. These reservoirs would collect rainwater during the monsoon season, helping reduce the impact of flooding while ensuring a steady water supply during dry periods.
Overall, both civilizations employed various strategies, such as irrigation, flood prediction, protective structures, and urban planning, to mitigate the effects of river flooding and maximize the benefits provided by the rivers.