Earthquakes and civilizations of the Indus Valley: A challenge for archaeoseismology

Research reveals that ancient civilizations along the Indus River Valley, including Harappan sites like Dholavira, were significantly impacted by earthquakes linked to tectonic plate collisions. The study highlights seismoarchaeological indicators such as repeated reconstructions, direct faulting, river damming due to seismic uplift, and coastal elevation changes, which provide evidence of past earthquake effects. By analyzing historical large-magnitude events in the region, the research emphasizes the need for future investigations to integrate seismological and tectonic perspectives rather than relying on serendipity.

Kovach, R. L., Grijalva, K., & Nur, A. (2010). Earthquakes and civilizations of the Indus Valley: A challenge for archaeoseismology. Ancient Earthquakes. https://doi.org/10.1130/2010.2471(11)