Which one of the following forms of settlement develops around a lake ?

Settlement patterns are classified based on their geometric shapes and the geographical features they surround. A circular settlement pattern typically develops around a central focal point such as a lake, pond, or crater [1]. In these cases, the water body serves as a vital resource or a 'wet point,' and the community builds their dwellings in a ring-like fashion around it to maintain equal access to the water [1]. This pattern is also observed in coastal areas or around central open spaces like village commons [1]. In contrast, linear settlements develop along transport routes like roads, canals, or narrow mountain valleys [1]. Rectangular or square patterns are more common in productive plains where fields are laid out in a grid [2]. Therefore, a lake naturally facilitates a circular arrangement of human habitation [1].

Sources

1. [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 14: Settlements > Patterns (Forms or Designs) of Rural Settlements > p. 7
2. [2] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 14: Settlements > Patterns (Forms or Designs) of Rural Settlements > p. 6