Tectono-geomorphic study of the Karewa Basin of Kashmir Valley

Abstract

The Karewa Basin nestled between the Pir Panjal Range and the Great Himalayan Range, in Northwest India, has been studied to understand its tectono-geomorphic evolution on the basis of geomorphic indices and morphotectonic parameters supported by the field evidences. Satellite data, topographic maps and digital elevation model (DEM) were used to extract various parameters at various spatial scales. Four watersheds, representative of the entire Karewa Basin, were chosen for detailed studies on the basis of the researchable evidence of the complete sequence of the stratigraphic record and the preservation of geomorphic landscapes. The integrated analysis of the geomorphic and morphometric data provides evidence of the relative variations in the tectonic activity among the watersheds. Geomorphic indices suggest a relatively high degree of tectonic activity along the Pir Panjal side of the Karewa Basin. This variation in the relative degree of tectonic activity is consistent with the field evidence, fault/lineament locations and the landscape geometry of the Karewa Basin. Based on the results from this study, it is suggested that Late Quaternary climate changes, tectonic uplift and erosion of the Pir Panjal Range and changing geometry of the Karewa Lake have played a key role in the evolution of the geomorphic landscape of the Kashmir Valley.