Introduction to Dholavira
Dholavira, a prominent city of the Harappan Civilization (circa 2500–1900 BCE), demonstrates remarkable ingenuity in water management. Situated in the arid region of present-day Gujarat, India, its reservoirs, channels, and tanks illustrate a sophisticated understanding of hydrology and urban planning.

Engineering and Construction
The city contained large, stone-built reservoirs designed to capture monsoon rains and regulate water supply throughout the year. These reservoirs were carefully aligned and layered with impermeable materials to prevent leakage, demonstrating advanced engineering skills.

Social and Civic Role
Water management was central to civic life in Dholavira. Reservoirs supported domestic use, agriculture, and ceremonial activities. Their construction required coordinated labor, technical knowledge, and long-term planning, reflecting the city’s organized administration and social hierarchy.

Religious and Symbolic Dimensions
Water held spiritual significance in the Indus Valley. Reservoirs may have also played a role in purification rituals and ceremonial practices, linking practical engineering with symbolic meaning. The integration of religion and urban utility highlights the holistic nature of Harappan planning.

Legacy and Lessons
Dholavira’s reservoirs provide evidence of one of the earliest examples of large-scale water conservation and urban infrastructure. Modern engineers and archaeologists continue to study these systems for their sustainability, insight into early urban civilizations, and the interplay between technology and culture.