Question

The various factors responsible for permanent settlements are:

Availability of water: If we go through the history, most of the civilisations developed near river, valleys, e.g., the Indus Valley Civilisation. Even today, water is an important resource for the growth of villages and towns. In desert areas as well, the houses are clustered around the source of water.

Relief features: They play an important role in the development of a settlement. Plains are favourable locations for the establishment of settlements. It is easy to have a good transport network here which makes it possible for the people to move easily from one place to another.

Special sites: Some sites are chosen for the settlements because of their natural beauty. These are called tourism-based towns. They provide employment to many people. In India, Srinagar, Goa, Shimla, Nainital, Ooty, etc., are some of such sites.