Banawali is one of the important cities of the civilization of the 7 rivers, located on the banks of the Sarasvati, a sacred river that played a crucial role in the life of this ancient civilization. The water of the Sarasvati was not only a natural resource, but a real axis of life that allowed the population to develop agriculture, prosper and stabilize. The confederation of the Pûrus was established there on its two banks.
Efficient water management
The irrigation system of Banawali shows how the inhabitants of the civilization of the 7 rivers mastered water management. The city was organized around well-designed networks to capture and distribute water from the Sarasvati River to the surrounding fields. Farmers used canals, probably dug manually, to convey water directly to the crops.
The importance of irrigation
In a region where water had been scarce during droughts, these irrigation systems were vital to ensure regular harvests. They allowed rainwater to be conserved and prevented the river from overflowing, thus protecting crops and homes.
Simple but ingenious techniques
Contrary to what one might think, the Banawali irrigation system was not extremely complicated. It relied on simple, but very effective techniques for the time. Hand-dug canals and water storage tanks were used to regulate the flow of the Sarasvati. These tanks were used to store water for periods of drought, including the one in 2200 BCE , thus ensuring a constant supply of water.
A model for civilization
Banawali and its irrigation system show how the inhabitants of the Seven Rivers Civilization were able to adapt to their environment in order to thrive. Through intelligent water management, this city was able to support a large population, while developing fertile agricultural lands along the Sarasvati River. This mastery of water likely contributed to the stability and longevity of the civilization.
Le Rig Veda 
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