New Archeological Find Suggests Mohenjo-Daro May Predate Previously Known Timeline

Indus Valley Civilisation May be Older Than Previously Estimated

New research evidence suggests that the Indus Valley Civilisation, which flourished in present-day India and Pakistan, may be older than earlier estimates. The findings, based on radiocarbon dating of materials such as animal remains and pottery, indicate that human settlement in the region dates back nearly 8,000 years.

Mohenjo-Daro, one of the world's earliest planned cities, has traditionally been dated to around 2600 BCE. The city, which is considered a significant archaeological site, boasts an organised street layout, drainage systems, and large-scale urban design with an estimated population of around 40,000 at its peak. However, recent studies suggest that the city's origins may be several centuries earlier than previously believed, dating back to 2700–2600 BCE.

Research linked to sites like Bhirrana in present-day Haryana indicates that human settlement in the region dates back 7,000 to 8,000 years. Archaeologists from the Sindh Directorate General of Antiquities & Archaeology (DGAA) say that this points to a longer period of development, beginning with early farming communities before the rise of major cities like Mohenjo-daro.

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The Indus Valley Civilisation is considered one of the world's earliest, alongside those of ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. If the revised timeline is confirmed, it would place its beginnings earlier than previously recorded, adding new information to the history of early human settlement. Mohenjo-daro, located in present-day Pakistan's Sindh province, remains one of the most important archaeological sites of the civilisation.

Experts say more research is needed to confirm the findings and better understand the timeline. Dating ancient sites involves different methods, and conclusions can change as new evidence is studied. The new findings have renewed interest in the origins of the Indus Valley Civilisation, and researchers say further study could help explain how early communities in the region developed into one of the world's first urban cultures.