Which civilization is known for an early system of urban planning with sewers?

The Indus Valley civilization, also known as the Harappan civilization, is famed for its advanced urban planning and sophisticated infrastructure, including an extensive system of drainage and sewage management. This civilization, which existed around 2500 to 1900 BCE in present-day Pakistan and northwest India, featured cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro that were meticulously laid out in a grid pattern. The streets were lined with houses made of baked brick, and many homes had access to a drainage system that carried waste away from the city, indicating a level of civic engineering that was quite advanced for the time.

The presence of well-planned urban centers with advanced sanitation systems is one of the hallmarks of the Indus Valley civilization, showcasing their understanding of urban hygiene and public health. This focus on infrastructure set them apart from contemporary civilizations, highlighting their ingenuity and organization in terms of urban living.