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Evolution in Planning Concepts

It would be interesting and instructive to present a concise review of the evolution in ideas

and also practice of Town Planning. This would certainly help in determining the future

course of action in this important field.

(i) Prehistoric days: The origin to civilization and town planning can be traced to rivervalleys of the Middle East (Nile, Tigris Rivers) and also in India (Indus River). From

archaeological excavations at Mohenjo-Daro and Lothal, it is observed that these were walled

towns, roads were wide and paved, and public drains were connected to house drains.

(ii) Ancient period: The period covering from about 6th

century B.C. to 6th

century A.D. is

known for the development of classic cities. The corresponding period in India is the glorious

period of development firstly under the Mauryas in the closing centuries before B.C. and then

under the Guptas in the beginning of centuries of A.D. Chanakya, a minister under the

Mauryas, is the author of Arthashastra, a book which includes many observations on town

and country planning and housing. Emperor Ashoka constructed many Viharas, Chaityas and

pillars with inscriptions of Buddhist teachings. Indian national flag displays Ashok Chakra

and Lion.

(iii) Dark Ages: The period between the 6th and 10th century A.D. is known as the Dark

Age with feudal system of development in towns. Following breakdown of the Roman

Empire, there was growth of several city states all over Europe. Still, there was no security,

life was in danger. Church influence grew during this period as the Abbes provided haven to

the oppressed people. In India, the prosperous days under the Guptas extended for some time

during this period. When King Harsha was ruling, Nalanda University was very famous

during this time and had 8500 students. Thereafter, period of decline commenced with

beginning of Muslim invasion.

(iv) Medieval Period: The emergence of the affluent middle class consisting of merchants,

traders and businessmen, is the chief characteristics of this period, covering 11th

to 15th

century A.D. Towns during this period were noted for informal but picturesque design. The

whole town was dominated by the Cathedral with its tower located in the centre and its vast

open spaces used as a market place where people met and discussed things, and together with

a town hall and an inside hall made an attractive town centre.

Towards the end of this period, there was heavy congestion of population to house them,

existing open spaces were built over and upper and upper stories were constructed, as

horizontal expansion was not possible by the limitation of town walls.

In India, this period witnessed a series of ruthless invasions and plunder, first by Muhammed

Ghori (two invasions) and later by Timur Lang. Muslim rule was started in the North and also

there were some invasions in the South against the Yadavas.

(v) Renaissance: During the 16th

and 17th

centuries, a tremendous change has affected the

life style of people living in the Western countries, due to scientific and technological

inventions. With the inventions of the Mariners compass, many enterprising people

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