Reanalyzing the geomorphic developments along tectonically active Soan Thrust, NW Himalaya, India

Abstract

Application of geomorphology in understanding tectonic processes in the active belts like the Himalaya is a well understood concept from the past decades. Identification of tectono-morphic features in a climatically induced and tectonically driven Himalayan system is the main focus of the present study. The parameters used in morphometric analysis i.e., Stream length gradient index (SL), steepness index (ks), and hypsometric curves (HC) are suitable in bringing immediate data for considering the tectono-climatic coupling within Soan Dun. This analysis further identified the potential zone of Holocene deformation which was additionally supported by field study along Soan Thrust (ST) in the northern margin of Soan Dun. The field study exemplifies the presence of fault scarps, triangular facets, transverse faults, V-shaped valley, and folded Quaternary sediments. These tectono-morphic features suffice the sole purpose of this study and signifies the Holocene crustal deformation in the frontal sub-Himalayan zone of Himachal segment.