Introduction
The Grand Trunk Road, also known as Uttarapath, Sarak-e-Azam, and Badshahi Sarak, is an ancient and illustrious road that has connected Central Asia to the Indian subcontinent for over 2,500 years. With a length of approximately 2,400 kilometers, this iconic road weaves through Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, playing a pivotal role in trade, communication, and cultural exchange. As Roads are important for transport, we need Bridges also for flawless transportation. In this blog, we will delve into the origins, construction, properties, notable examples, and its historical significance across different empires.
What is the Grand Trunk Road?
The Grand Trunk Road, also referred to as Uttarapatha in ancient times, is one of Asia’s oldest and longest major roads. It acts as a vital trade and transportation route, running from Teknaf, Bangladesh on the border with Myanmar, to Kabul, Afghanistan. Along its route, it passes through important cities like Chittagong, Dhaka, Kolkata, Delhi, Lahore, and Peshawar, connecting diverse regions and cultures.
Who First Built the Grand Trunk Road?
The precursor of the modern Grand Trunk Road was built during the Mauryan Empire in the 3rd century BCE under the orders of Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. Inspired by the Persian Royal Road, it served as a vital trade route between India and various parts of Western Asia and Bactria. The Mauryan rulers meticulously maintained and expanded this ancient highway, connecting cities like Takshashila, Hastinapura, Prayag, and Patliputra.
The role of Sher Shah Suri in Grand Truck road
The modern Grand Trunk Road was the result of Sher Shah Suri rebuilding the Royal Road built by Chandragupta Maurya in the 16th Century. He rerouted the Grand Trunk Road at Sonargaon and Rohtas. He increased the width of the road. He also planted shade trees and fruit trees along the road.
The Sher Shah Suri Marg
The Sher Shah Suri Marg connecting Delhi and Amritsar is known as the National Highway No. 1. Sher Shah Suri is named as the builder of Grand Trunk Road, the east-west road, which connects Bengal to Punjab.
Sher Shah Suri Marg
Properties of the Grand Trunk Road
1.Length and Connectivity: With a stretch of approximately 2,400 kilometers, the Grand Trunk Road links key cities, towns, and cultural centers across South Asia, facilitating trade and transportation.
2.Varied Terrains: The road traverses diverse landscapes, including mountains, plains, and river crossings. Its construction requires careful planning and engineering expertise to ensure stability and durability.
3.Cultural Significance: Over the centuries, the Grand Trunk Road has been adorned with historic sites, monuments, and architectural marvels, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the empires it has connected.
Connectivity of Grand Trunk Road at present time
A notable section of the Grand Trunk Road runs between Lahore in Pakistan and Delhi in India. This route holds immense historical significance, reflecting the influences of various empires. Travellers along this stretch can explore magnificent structures, historic monuments, bustling bazaars, and architectural gems, providing a glimpse into the vibrant heritage of the region.
History of the Grand Trunk Road with Various Empires
1.Mauryan Empire: Emperor Chandragupta Maurya initiated the construction of the Grand Trunk Road in the 3rd century BCE, expanding an ancient route known as Uttarapatha. It was maintained and extended by subsequent Mauryan rulers, including Ashoka and Kanishka.
2.Sher Shah Suri: The modern Grand Trunk Road was the result of Sher Shah Suri rebuilding the Royal Road built by Chandragupta Maurya in the 16th Century. He rerouted the Grand Trunk Road at Sonargaon and Rohtas. He increased the width of the road. He also planted shade trees and fruit trees along the road. At every two kos, he built caravanserai or roadside inns for the travellers and whoever stopped there were provided with food and shelter for free.
Later, Islam Shah Suri (the second son of Sher Shah Suri) constructed additional caravanserais between every caravanserai originally built by his father. He built them on the road towards Bengal. The Grand Trunk Road was called ‘Sadak-e-Azam’ by the Suri Dynasty.
3.British Empire: In the 19th century, the British East India Company undertook significant reconstruction of the Grand Trunk Road, transforming it into a metalled road for commercial and administrative purposes.
Conclusion🎯
The Grand Trunk Road stands as a symbol of the historical, cultural, and commercial linkages that have shaped South Asia. With its origins dating back to the Mauryan Empire, this ancient highway has witnessed the passage of countless empires, played a crucial role in trade, and fostered cultural exchange. Today, it remains an integral part of the region’s transportation infrastructure, connecting communities and preserving the legacy of centuries-old civilizations.