Context:
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is developing the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC), at Lothal, Gujarat
Lothal:
- Literal meaning ‘mound of the dead’
- Location – Situated in the Bhāl region of Gujarat
- Between the Bhogavo and Sabarmati rivers, near the Gulf of Khambhat
- Historical Significance – One of the southernmost sites of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, believed to have been constructed around 2200 BCE
Important features:
- The city was constructed in a grid pattern with streets crossing at right angles and an efficient drainage system
- The city was divided into 2 parts: the upper town and the lower town
- The presence of dockyard indicates significant maritime trade, with evidence of trade links to Sumer (modern-day Iraq), Bahrain, and Iran
- Renowned for its bead-making industry, producing beads from semi-precious stones, terracotta, and gold
- Fire altars in houses and public places.
- Archaeological findings include numerous artifacts such as seals, potteries, and tools showcasing the artistic and technological advancements of the Harappan civilization
Related articles:
National Maritime Heritage Complex
Source: PIB
Previous Year Question
Which one of the following is not a Harappan site?
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2019 Prelims]
(a) Chanhudaro
(b) Kot Diji
(c) Sohgaura
(d) Desalpur
Answer: (c)
