Prototype for an axially connected linear route in the ancient cities of Sindh-Pakistan

Abstract

The grid is an orthogonal framework that is an innovative system in the history of spatial configuration. In addition, it is an important algorithm in the practice of urban engineering as it can be found along the entire history of urban planning. The most powerful characteristic of the urban grid framework is that it creates a foundational map amenable to producing efficient use of space. However, not much research has been done on the primary origins of the urban grid. This paper examines the chronological history of the orthogonal grid in planned cities in an ancient civilization where the grid pattern was used for designing human settlements. The aim of the current paper is to present the spatial configuration for the most primitive prototype of a prehistorically evolving city. In short, the aim here is to call for a redefinition of the notion of the city based on an axial grid. There is a vacuum about the first grid planned city using grown along the linear datum as a spatial navigating device since the early Stone Age and prehistoric era. The grid configuration has several historic-geographical attributes witnessing the evolution of four dimensional temporal- spatial forms. None of the studies have examined the role of the grid according to the topographical constraints of prehistoric cave morphologies such as the Devils Mouth, the first (Rakas jo Roon the first and the second) at Rohri, Lusbella Gundrani caves and the Seven caves. Here cave dwellings are embedded (carved out spaces) hence they are reverse mould i.e. subtractive space rather than additive. This typology provided complete enclosure to hunters and gatherers against the threats from wild animals. It also facilitates a variety of public and private spaces as well as congregational meetings space. To diminish the imbalance in research approaches towards urban settlements; Cozen (2004) suggested that the need is all the most urgent because townscapes are assets of society. The documentary and pictorial evidence based on field surveys included in this paper supports the need for an earlier city theory of the townscape grounded in intensive spatial analysis work. Thus, there is an urgent need for a multidisciplinary approach toward redefining the first planned city.