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

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

Linear
Cross-shaped
Circular
Square
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CDS-2 – 2023
A circular pattern of settlement development often occurs around a central feature or nodal point, such as a lake, pond, or village common. People build their homes and structures around the accessible water source, leading to a settlement layout that radiates outwards or forms a ring.
Settlement patterns are influenced by the physical environment and cultural factors. A lake serves as a significant physical feature attracting settlement. The necessity of access to water and the presence of a distinct central point naturally encourage a circular or semi-circular arrangement of dwellings around it.
Other settlement patterns include:
– Linear: Develops along a line of communication or transport, such as a road, railway line, or river bank.
– Cross-shaped: Occurs at the intersection of two roads, with development extending along all four directions.
– Dispersed/Scattered: Found in areas with fragmented agricultural land or where people prefer to live separately from neighbours.
– Nucleated/Clustered: Where houses are built closely together around a central point or along a main street.