[Solved] Dholavira Water Harvesting and Management | Indus Valley

Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelizing water into connected reservoirs?

[UPSC CSE Pre 2021]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Water management was a hallmark of the Indus Valley Civilization, with Dholavira representing the pinnacle of hydraulic engineering for its time.

Authentic Source Evidence

Dholavira, located in Gujarat, features an extraordinary system of stone-cut reservoirs and dams. Excavations revealed that the city planners utilized gravity and sophisticated drainage to collect and store rainwater, essential for survival in the arid Rann of Kutch.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Dholavira is uniquely characterized by its extensive use of stone and complex water infrastructure compared to other Harappan sites.

Logic 2: While Kalibangan and Rakhigarhi show urban planning, they do not match the specific reservoir and dam system found at Dholavira.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Why was water management so critical for Dholavira specifically?"

Due to its location in an area with ephemeral streams and low rainfall, necessitating the capture of every drop of monsoon water.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The hydraulic engineering at Dholavira demonstrates a deep understanding of environmental constraints and sustainable urban living 4,500 years ago."

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