The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Indus Valley Civilisation (IVC), also known as the Harappan Civilisation, is renowned for its remarkable urban planning and engineering. Unlike contemporary civilisations in Mesopotamia or Egypt, the IVC cities demonstrated a standardized and scientific approach to civic layout, characterized by the division of cities into the Citadel (acropolis) and the Lower Town.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: The arrangement of houses, markets, and streets in Harappan cities did not follow a haphazard pattern. Instead, the cities were laid out on a grid system, where main streets ran parallel to each other and were intersected at right angles by smaller streets, dividing the city into rectangular blocks.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Harappa and Mohenjodaro represent some of the earliest and finest examples of civic planning in the ancient world. Their layout included fortified citadels for the elite or public structures and lower towns for the common populace, utilizing standardized burnt bricks.
- Statement 3 is Correct: A sophisticated drainage system is a distinctive feature of the Indus Valley Civilisation. Most houses were connected to street drains, which were covered with stone slabs or bricks. The system included soak pits and manholes at regular intervals for cleaning, indicating a high emphasis on hygiene and sanitation.
Key Takeaway:
The hallmark of Harappan urbanisation is its Grid System of town planning and an advanced underground drainage system, distinguishing it from other Bronze Age civilisations.