Rivers support human settlements in various ways:
Water source: Rivers provide a reliable source of fresh water for drinking, cooking, irrigation, and other daily needs.
Transportation: Rivers have historically been used as transportation routes, facilitating trade and communication between settlements.
Fertile soil: River valleys often have fertile soil due to sediment deposits, which support agriculture and food production.
Natural resources: Rivers offer access to resources such as fish, minerals, and hydroelectric power, which can sustain local economies.
Recreation and tourism: Rivers provide opportunities for recreation, such as fishing, boating, and other water sports, attracting tourists and contributing to the local economy.