Question

Give a geographical reason.

Availability of water is a major factor affecting settlements.

Answer 1

1. Human settlements are organised and structured human habitations in different regions.
2. The concentration of settlement depends upon many important factors like the availability of water, natural resources, climatic conditions and the type of region.
3. Even though the nature of the region and the climatic conditions also influence the concentration of settlement, the availability of clean water is the most important determinant.
4. Because of this reason, we can find most of the ancient human habitations on the banks of the rivers. Indraprastha, Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, and Varanasi are some examples of such settlements.
5. Water is essential for drinking, agriculture, industries and daily human activities, so people prefer to settle near reliable water sources.
6. Availability of water also supports fertile soil and transportation facilities, which further encourage the growth and concentration of settlements.

Thus, the availability of water is the most important determinant of the concentration of human settlement.

Answer 2

1. Human beings require water to satisfy their various daily needs. Water is required for agriculture as well as industries.
2. Due to the unavailability of water, agriculture and industries do not flourish. As a result, human settlements do not grow in such areas.
3. Due to the availability of water, agriculture and industries have developed. Many employment opportunities are generated. As a result, human settlements are developed in such areas. In this way, the availability of water is a major factor affecting settlements.