Assessment of active tectonics from geomorphic indices and morphometric parameters in part of Ganga basin

Abstract

Ganga river basins exposed to active erosional and deformational processes. The recurrence of landslides, floods, and seismic activities makes it more susceptible to deformational activities. The tectonic analysis using geomorphic indices and morphometric parameters will help in determining the hazard-prone area of the river basin. Geomorphic indices and morphometric parameters are calculated to investigate the role of neotectonic activities, as it acts as a controlling factor in the development of landforms in the tectonically active terrains. Neotectonic activities influence the terrain topography, which significantly affects the drainage system and geomorphological setup of the area. In this study, the assessment of active tectonics of study area was determined using Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) Global Digital Elevation Model (GDEM) based on Geomorphic Indices (Stream Length Gradient index, Hypsometric integral, Asymmetry factor, Basin shape, Valley floor width to Valley height ratio, Mountain front sinuosity index) cumulatively with Linear, Areal and Relief morphometric parameters on 27 delineated basins of the study area. The combined classification of Relative Tectonic Activity Index (Iat) and morphometric parameters of 27 basins categorized all the zones into four different classes: Class 1 - Very High ( 2.21; 299 km2). The basins with tectonic activities have a consistent relationship with structural disturbances, basin geometry, and field studies. The tectonically active zonation of a part of Ganga basin using geomorphic indices and morphometric parameters suggest that it has significant influence of neotectonic activities in a part of Ganga basin.