Landsat Thematic Mapper data analysis for Quaternary tectonics in parts of the Doon valley, NW Himalaya, India

Abstract

Identification of active faults in Himalaya is extremely significant as they directly reflect the Himalayan continental collision. They have moved repeatedly during the Quaternary, resulting in the dislocation of many landforms, such as streams, alluvial and piedmont fans and river terraces, etc. In the present study, Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) data has been used to identify signatures of Quaternary tectonics in parts of the Doon valley, NW Himalaya. The Siwalik zone is being squeezed between the very active Main Boundary Thrust and the Himalayan Frontal Thrust and there is differential uplift and subsidence in the Doon valley. The study has helped to extract certain subtle geological information which has played a significant role in the present geomorphic configuration of the valley. Apart from the many lineaments identified it was observed that a NNE-SSW trending lineament, identified distinctly on the satellite image, separates the Doon valley fan sequence from the Yamuna terraces in the west. It is inferred that the fan sequence has been uplifted and tilted towards the west. The analysis of remotely-sensed data along with selected field checks has yielded interesting results of the Quaternary tectonics experienced in the Doon valley.