Researchers Reveal the Reason Behind the Downfall of the Ancient Yet Advanced Indus Valley Civilization

The Indus Valley Civilization was one of the finest creations of humankind. The ancient yet advanced civilization was a complex society that emerged around 2600 BCE. In the 1920s, Archaeologist John Marshall discovered and introduced it to the modern world. The early settlements showcased significant traces of human transformation and their commitment to living an urban life. After centuries, researchers and scientists revealed the findings that challenge long-held theories and uncovered the reasons for the downfall or disappearance of the iconic Indus Valley Civilisation. Take a look!

What Happened to the Indus Valley Civilization? 

Spanning much of present-day Pakistan and northwest India, the Indus Valley Civilisation was characterized by advanced urban planning. It features gridded streets, sophisticated sanitation systems, multi-storey brick homes, flush toilets, sewage pathways, and more. The initial reason for the disappearance of the civilisation was believed to be a single mysterious or catastrophic cause. However, a recent breakthrough study claimed that prolonged droughts and global warming led to its decline. 

An international research team carried out the study and published the findings in the ‘Journal Communications Earth & Environment’. According to reports, the researchers utilized paleoclimate data and computer modelling to analyse the climate from 3000 to 1000 BCE. Their findings emphasized that the downfall of Harappa, one of the most significant urban centres of the Indus Valley Civilisation, resulted from centuries-long droughts, which led to the desiccation of rivers and soils.