UPSC Prelims 2021 · Question 32 of 97
UPSC Prelims 2021 question on Dholavira Water Management
- ExamUPSC CSE
- Year2021
- PaperGeneral Studies Paper I
- SubjectAncient History
- TopicHarappan Civilization (Indus Valley)
- DifficultyEasy
- TypeDirect
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?
Show answer
Answer: A. Dholavira
Dholavira is located on Khadir bet island in the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. In protohistoric times, water levels in the Rann may have been higher than they are today, allowing boats to sail from the coast up to the site.
The architecture of Dholavira shows a large-scale use of sandstone, combined in places with mud-brick — a feature of the Harappan sites of Gujarat. The city had an impressive and unique water harvesting and management system.
It can be noted that this area receives less than 160 cm of rain every year and is very prone to droughts. The site is flanked by two streams — the Manhar and Mandsar. Dams were built across these to channelize their water into reservoirs.
Hence option (a) is the correct answer.