Question

Availability of water is a major factor affecting settlement

Answer 1

yes availability of water is a major factor affecting settlement because water has multi uses and is a indispensable (inseparable) part of our daily life. so the people prefer  to get settled in the area where there is ample of water  following are the important uses of water:-
1. drinking
2. cleaning and bathing
3. cooking
4.irrigation 
5. animals also need water (cows, donkeys,etc.)

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 unavailability of water , the agriculture and industries do not flourish . As its effect , human settlements do not grow in such areas.

3) Due to availability of water, the agriculture and industries gets developed. Many employment opportunities are generated. As its effect , human settlements get developed in such areas. In this way availability of water is a major factor affecting settlements.