Part of: Delhi Gk set 7

Who earned worldwide respect for constructing a large reservoir outside Delhi-i-Kunha?

Category: Delhi Gk

Hint: Consider the historical period and the rulers of Delhi.

Correct Answer: A) Sultan Iltutmish.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Civil Services, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The construction of large reservoirs was a significant aspect of urban planning and water management in medieval India. Sultan Iltutmish, who ruled from 1211 to 1236 CE, was a prominent figure in the Delhi Sultanate and made several contributions to the city's infrastructure. One of his notable achievements was the construction of the Hauz-i-Khas reservoir, also known as Hauz-i-Iltutmish, which was built outside Delhi to provide a reliable water supply to the city.

The Hauz-i-Khas reservoir was a large artificial lake that collected rainwater and was connected to a network of canals and aqueducts. This reservoir was crucial for the city's water supply, especially during the dry seasons. The construction of such a large reservoir demonstrated the advanced engineering and urban planning skills of the time, and it earned Sultan Iltutmish worldwide respect for his contributions to the city's infrastructure.

It is important to distinguish the contributions of different rulers of the Delhi Sultanate. While Akbar and Shah Jahan are also significant figures in Indian history, their contributions were in different areas. Akbar, who ruled from 1556 to 1605 CE, is known for his administrative reforms and the construction of the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Shah Jahan, who ruled from 1628 to 1658 CE, is famous for the Taj Mahal and the construction of the Red Fort and the city of Shahjahanabad. Neither of these rulers is associated with the construction of the Hauz-i-Khas reservoir.

Understanding the historical context and the specific contributions of each ruler is crucial for correctly identifying the builder of the Hauz-i-Khas reservoir. Sultan Iltutmish's construction of this reservoir was a significant achievement that reflects the advanced water management practices of the Delhi Sultanate period.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Sultan Iltutmish, a ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, constructed the Hauz-i-Khas reservoir, which was a significant water management project that provided water to the city and earned him worldwide respect.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. Akbar, while a significant ruler, is not known for constructing the Hauz-i-Khas reservoir. Akbar's contributions were more focused on administrative reforms and the construction of the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Shah Jahan, known for the Taj Mahal, did not construct the Hauz-i-Khas reservoir. Shah Jahan's contributions were primarily in the realm of architecture and urban planning, such as the construction of the Red Fort and the city of Shahjahanabad.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The correct answer is Sultan Iltutmish, who is historically recognized for the construction of the Hauz-i-Khas reservoir.

Mnemonic: Iltutmish's Kunha: I for Iltutmish, K for Kunha

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