A bronze age inland water network and its role in the maritime trade network of the Harappan (Indus) Civilization

Abstract

The Bronze Age Harappan Civilisation thrived between 2600 BCE and 1900 BCE in the northwestern part of the Indian Subcontinent. The Harappans established robust interregional trade networks, efficiently managing procurement and distribution across various regions. Water transport was crucial to these trade activities, offering a cost-effective and faster means of transportation. This was particularly important in the Kachchh region, where the unique geographical features favoured waterborne trade. Extensive maritime routes allowed the Harappans to expand their trade pursuits to distant regions such as Mesopotamia, the Persian Gulf, and the Arabian Peninsula. The intercultural trade and exchange were facilitated by a series of settlements on the Kachchh coast, prominent among them being Dholavira, Shikarpur, Bagasra, Kanmer, Surkotada and sites on the Makran coast. By incorporating satellite data, on-site observations and existing literature, the present study reinvestigates Lothal, an important Harappan port town and production hub, including its adjoining region. This paper explores the contemporary and historical geography of the region, focusing on the Harappan maritime routes that were once active but have become entirely defunct due to geomorphic and climatic changes. The analysis identifies three major navigable waterways: the shallow inland water route through the Nal Corridor connecting Lothal to the Little Rann of Kachchh, offering a much shorter and safer path to Harappan sites north of Lothal; the riverine route through the Sabarmati River, leading to Aravalli and the eastern hinterland; and the sea route through the Gulf of Khambhat to the south, providing access to the Ratanpur-Rajpipla mines. This suggested that Lothal was strategically positioned at the intersection of these routes during the Harappan Period, demonstrating the Harappans' advanced geographic knowledge. The results highlight the dynamic nature of procurement and distribution networks and the pivotal role of Lothal and its surrounding landscape in facilitating direct or indirect interregional and intercultural economic exchanges.