In the third decade of the present century, archaeological investigations had been conducted at Mohenjodaro and Harappa, which have brought out many interesting observations. The Indus valley civilization is considered to be the earliest urban civilization and is at par with the most developed western civilization. The remains of the highly developed city has been excavated through the years and it is believed that this civilization dated five thousand years back. The Harappan town planning is still a matter of surprise and wonder for the contemporary world. This actually establishes the fact that the people were really technologically advanced and very knowledgeable in the laying out of the construction of the city as a whole.

The Harappan civilization grew up on the banks of the river Indus. Many recently conducted excavations at Lothal in Gujarat, Bikaner in Rajasthan and Ruper in North-eastern Punjab have discovered out many relics, which are quite similar to the ones of the Indus valley, and this establishes a connection that may be the ancient civilization was not only confined to the Indus valley but also extended to the North-Western India also. The ruins of the old city give an impression that the city was destroyed as well as rebuilt several times. The inhabitants of the region practiced different trades for their economic prosperity out of which agiculture is important. Artistry was also encouraged which is pretty much clear from the excavated seals, statues, ornaments, garments and so on.

Town planning:
The town planning of the Harappan civilization affirms the fact that the civic organizations of the city was highly developed. The roads, dwelling houses, large buildings and forts were very well executed. They followed a system of centralized administration. The houses were even protected from noise, odors, and thieves. Harappan town planning had the inclusion of many traveling houses which ranged from two roomed to large buildings. Houses were properly placed on both sides of the roads, and also in tha lanes. The doors of the houses opened in the lanes and not on the roads. The houses were built on plinths that rose above the street level with stairs recessed at the wall at the front door. The planning did not allow any hindrance on the roads so everything was well organized. There were the government houses which were differently executed, dwelling houses which ranged from single to several stories with many rooms, public baths and so on. At Harappa many rooms consisting of two chambers around the courtyard of a dwelling house have been discovered, which are meant for the staying of the laborers. From the economic point of view, it can be assumed that agriculture was the primary occupation. This is evident from the availability of the granary in the city. The granary was constructed on the high foundation of the burnt bricks. The city of Harappa had defensive outer walls. The Citadel was the centre of important buildings, most of these settlements were built of, ud bricks, chiseled stones and burnt bricks. The citadels faced the west, which acted like sanctuaries at the time of aggression and during peace they played the role of community centers. The Harappan town planning gives a detailed account of a very good drainage and sanitary system. The main drain was connected with each and every house ensuring the proper disposal of waste. In order to check the maintenance, inspection holes were provided. The drains were covered and connected to the larger sewerage outlets, which ensured the passage of dirt out of the city.

Effects:
The Harappa town planning has stunned the archaeologists worldwide. Excavations are being carried out even today. The remains of the city have left an everlasting effect on the people. Whenever we encounter the well-laid roads, houses, public houses we find their love for well-organized city. It has become a landmark for the contemporary civilization when technological advancements have been made which is helping to achieve great heights. It is unbelievable that even in that ancient past people could think so scientifically and were so conscious as to build a dream city with everything well planned and properly executed. It has become a specimen of wonderful town planning in today`s world and has inspired the contemporary generation. From the concept of bathing pools and granaries we get a glimpse of the modern day swimming pools and storehouses where grain can be stored. It was a proper furnished city that a modern man is habituated with. This facilitated the Harappa dwellers to live a luxurious life with proper sanitation and regulation. Safe transport and traveling facilities were provided due to the well laid roads which did not hinder communication. Over all the Harappa town planning was very scientific and very much applicable and feasible in contemporary times.

We come to know about the Harappa town planning from the remains excavated from the sites. These sites are a special attraction for archaeologists as well the common lot. Harappan town planning is extremely modern and a specimen of the ancient times that was equally developed like the present times.