Mapping the Glacial-Geomorphological Landforms in East Liddar Valley, NW Himalaya Kashmir India

Abstract

The paper presents a glacial geomorphological map of landforms produced by different glaciers in East liddar during the past. The map has been created as the necessary precursor for an improved understanding of the glacial history of the region, and to strengthen a program of dating glacial limits in the region. The map was produced using Landsat TM, ASTER DEM, Google Earth™ imagery and field validation. The different landforms which were mapped include: lateral moraines, terminal moraines, proglacial lakes, palaeo-cirques, erratic boulders, outwash plains, whale backs, glacial grooves, rochee mountanee, drumlins, glacial striations, hanging valleys debris/talus cones, subglacial material. Glacial-Geomorphological features are very significant for palaeo-climatic reconstruction, showing variations, temporally and spatially. At the same time these landforms, which are also altered by processes prevailing during interglacial period, helps in geo-environment studies.