Deep crustal resistivity structure of the Lohit Valley in the Eastern Himalayan Syntaxial region

Abstract

The paper discusses the magnetotelluric derived electrical resistivity cross‐section of deep crust along the Lohit Valley in the Eastern Himalayan Syntaxial bend region. A low‐angle, north‐east dipping, intra‐crustal low resistive layer (IC‐LRL) is a dominant feature in the resistivity cross‐section. We interpret IC‐LRL as a signature of Main Himalayan Thrust. In the geoelectrical model, all the major thrusts separating different tectonic zones across the profile coincide with the dipping conducting features and these thrusts merged to IC‐LRL. The Lesser Himalaya and the Lohit Plutonic Complex are imaged as resistive features. Conductive zone between the Lesser Himalaya and Lohit Plutonic Complex reflect the Tidding Suture Zone. Conductivity of the IC‐LRL is lower in comparison with IC‐LRL imaged in another sector of the Himalaya. We suggest this difference is due to the significant difference in the intensity of the tectonic processes in this part of the Himalaya as compared to elsewhere.