Water Purification Practices in the Sarasvati Valley

The Seven Rivers Civilization, which flourished along the Sarasvati and its tributaries, placed great importance on water. This precious resource was not only vital for agriculture and daily life, but also associated with rituals and purification practices. The inhabitants had developed advanced methods to filter, store and purify water, thus ensuring healthy and sustainable consumption.

1. 1. Tanks and settling basins

In several sites of the Seven Rivers civilization, structures dedicated to the storage and purification of water have been discovered. At Dholavira, for example, reservoirs cut into the rock were used to retain rainwater. These basins, often connected by canals, allowed impurities to settle at the bottom before being used for drinking or ablutions.

1. 2. Natural filtration wells

The inhabitants dug deep wells equipped with walls made of special bricks. These bricks allowed water to seep in while blocking particles of sand and clay. In Mohenjo-Daro, wells were found that were still intact, demonstrating the mastery of this technique.

1. 3. Ritual baths and collective hygiene

Water was not only used for drinking, it also had a spiritual role. The Great Bath of Mohenjo-Daro illustrates this importance. This public basin, fed by a water supply system, was probably used for purification rituals. Bathing before certain ceremonies or after periods of impurity was a common practice.

1. 4. The use of sand and charcoal to filter water

The inhabitants of the Sarasvati Valley were probably aware of the filtering properties of sand and charcoal. By letting water flow through layers of fine sand and charcoal, they could remove some impurities and improve the quality of the water.

1. 5. Recycling and disposal of waste water

The cities of the Seven Rivers civilization had elaborate water drainage systems. The streets were equipped with gutters and brick channels that directed wastewater to specific areas, thus preventing stagnation and contamination of drinking water supplies. This system reduced the risk of disease and ensured a healthier environment.

1. Advanced Water Management for a Prosperous Civilization

The water purification practices in the Sarasvati Valley demonstrate advanced knowledge of hydraulics and particular attention to hygiene. Thanks to these methods, the civilization of the 7 rivers was able to thrive for centuries, preserving one of its most precious resources.