Explain the distribution pattern of rural settlements in the world.

Solution

Distribution pattern of rural settlements on a world map reveals two distinct patterns:

(i) Compact and (ii) Dispersed or scattered

(i) Compact Settlements: The basic feature of a compact settlement is that houses are built in close vicinity to each other. Such settlements develop at the intersection of two-foot paths or near a water body. River valley and fertile plains all over the world have compact settlements particularly in the region of Monsoon Asia. In plains of China, India and Thailand compact large nucleated villages dominant all over. In the delta of Irawadi river linear settlements along with nucleated small villages are commonly found.

Eg. The largest concentration of compact settlements has evolved in the Kwanto plains of Japan. In Europe, compact settlements are found in river valleys of Volga and Denube. The Rhine hill tops are also dotted with compact settlements having plain area for farming.

(ii) Scattered Settlements: Such types of settlements are generally found over hills, plateaus and highlands. They consist of one or two dwelling units knitted together in a common bond by cultural features such as a temple, church or a mosque. Such settlements are common in Africa.

In India, such settlements are found in Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, northern West Bengal and Sikkim.