The Deccan traps

Abstract

After recapitulating some of the main facts about the Deccan traps which have been definitely established, and drawing attention to the connection between this igneous activity and the disruption of the Gondwana continent, a new interpretation of the geological history of the Deccan trap period has been put forward on lines which it is expected may ultimately lead to a satisfactory solution of the many knotty problems connected with this great volcanic rock-formation. The relationship between the main mass of the Deccan trap and its two important outliers one near Rajahmundry and the other in Western Sind is next considered. The problem of the age of the Deccan traps is discussed on the basis of all the evidence available in the different areas, from which it would appear that the eruptions began at the close of the cretaceous, and continued not only throughout the eocene but extended even into later periods.