History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c29.s1.t4.6

v1.c29.s1.t4.6

Kausāmbi (Dt. Allahabad, U.P) Earliest evidence of town planning in early historical period comes from Kausāmbi. The excavations in the area near Aśokan pillar revealed a planned city. The road excavated in the area controlled the plan of this city. Every house had access to this road either directly or through the lanes or by-lanes. The road joined one of the principal thoroughfares of the city connecting the Aśokan pillar area with various parts of the city and eastern gateway. Aśokan pillar stood at the junction of this road and principal thoroughfares. This plan continued from 4th century B.C to A.D. 400. The lay-out of the excavated city reveals the existence of a number of cross walls provided with doors which could be closed for protection and security.