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fire altars, the Great Bath of Mohenjodaro. Most probably the ruling class lived in the
Citadel. The lower town contained the houses and workplaces of the common people. In the
lower town, all the houses were connected directly to the well planned drainage system of
covered drains and soak pits.

Drainage System : It is one of the most impressive
achievements of the Harappan Civilisation. Drains were
made of well-baked bricks and were generally covered
with bricks which could be lifted easily for cleaning the
drain. Every house had drains which were connected to
the main drain of street. It had excellent water supply.
Drainage System
The Great Bath : A unique structure of the civilisation is
the famous Great Bath of Mohenjodaro. This was lined
with bricks, coated with plaster and made water-tight
with a layer of natural tar. It was connected to a well for
water inlet. Dirty water was drained out through drains
constructed in its massive walls. There were rooms on all
sides. These side rooms were used for changing clothes.
The Great Bath These bath were generally used for religious bathing.
Perhaps important people took a dip in this tank on special occasions. It was an example
of beautiful brickworks.
Well Planned Houses : The residential buildings were strong and sturdy as they were made
of baked bricks. The walls were strong and thick. Some houses were one or two storey
high, showing advanced knowledge of construction. Each house had a bathroom, a kitchen
and a large courtyard. Most houses also had a well, it suggested that the people were
aware of water conservation.

economIc lIfe

The Harappans were agriculturalists. Their economy
was entirely dominated by horticulture. Wheat and
barley were the main crops. Many of the Harappan seals
had pictures of animals such as elephants, tigers and
rhinoceroses that imply a wet and marshy environment.

These people harvested various crops, such as cotton,
peas and sesame. The Harappans had commercial Harappans Seals
links with Rajasthan, Baluchistan, Afghanistan and Iran. Harappans were also acquainted
with the art of dying. Pottery was an important industry. The Harappans also practised
boat-making, seal-making and terracotta manufacturing.

admInIstratIon

Since we are unable to decipher script of Indus Valley Civilisation, it is quite difficult to
claim exactly the government system. Most probably, the cities were administered by a
committee of people consisting of rich merchants. A stone statue have been found which

42 Social Studies-6