Abstract
Fractal measures (Fdim, Dlac, and Dsuc) and Transverse-topographic-asymmetryfactor (Tfactor) were used to assess the neotectonic deformation with aid of MATLAB algorithms and (GIS) techniques. This appraisal underlines the role of the tectonic geomorphometric processes for the basin asymmetry. Astore-DeosaiSadpara watershed (ADSW) region in Gilgit-Baltistan was selected for this purpose as it lies between MKT and MMT which is experiencing surface topographic deformation (STD) caused by anti-clock-wise progression and subduction of Indian plate beneath Eurasia. To investigate neotectonism in the Astore-Deosai-region (ADSW), we identified geomorphic domains that show evidence of ground tilting during Quaternary time. Tfactor and Fractal measures; fractal dimension, Lacunarity and Sucolarity (Fdim, Dlac, and Dsuc) were used to infer directions of topographic deformation (TD) and ground tilting. ASTERGDEM based transverse basin profiles were converted to two-dimensional vectors that denote channel position with respect to basin mid-lines and divides. Quaternary activity is suggested for two thrust faults in ADSW-GB. The results obtained illustrates that (Fdim), Transverse-topographic-asymmetry-factor (Tfactor) and Drainage density (Ddensity) show anomalies in the ADSW region that clearly represent a robust control of nearby MMT, MKT and KkF and highlights their significance to describe regions vulnerable to neotectonics and related deadly events threatening precious human lives and infrastructure damages. Results obtained reveal that geomorphometric investigation of Tfactor, Fdim, Dlac, and Dsuc proved efficient inspection tools in ADSW region.
Keyword(s)
ASTER-GDEM, Fdim, Dlac, and Dsuc, Tfactor, Neotectonics, ADSW, and Gilgit-Baltistan.