Investigation of Surface Deformation in Lower Jehlum Valley and Eastern Potwar using SRTM DEM

Abstract

This study describes the surface deformation in lower Jehlum and eastern Potwar using remotely sensed Shutter Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM) Digital Elevation Model (DEM) to identify regional uplift rates. Mapping of active surface deformations help to predict seismic hazards. DEMs are the fundamental input factors that identify the surface geometry and its belongings. These belongings include stream offset, elevation, and slope breaks within a contributing area. This study provides an evidence of tectonic activity and its impact on regional drainage network using SRTM DEM. Various indices including concavity and steepness were computed using power law in steady state conditions. We prepared the drainage network map of the study site showing uplift rates in mm/year. The deflection in stream network proves the existence of active fault in this region which controls the local drainage network. The results prove the relative uplift along Main Boundary Thurst (MBT) and the impact of active tectonic on evolving young organs.