Quaternary morphology and geodynamics of the Damodar-Kanshabati interfluve (DKI), India

Abstract

The current study uses geo-morphotectonic analysis to understand and interpret the influences of neotectonics in the drainage network of the Damodar-Kanshabati interfluve in the Quaternary Period. The three objectives of this study are: i) identification, mapping and assessment of morphology of the DKI, ii) examination of the role of neotectonic deformations on drainage morpho-dynamics, iii) evaluation of the Quaternary structures and geomorpho-dynamics of the DKI. Topographic sheets, satellite images and field photographs were analysed to fulfill the objectives of the study. Morphometric, morphotectonic and geomorphic parameters had been analysed that reflect neotectonic activities in the interfluve. Identified deformed landforms, tilting, local uplift & subsidence and sudden changes at knick points in longitudinal profiles of all major rivers indicate a strong neotectonic influence in the interfluve. Abrupt changes in channel flow, sudden flow diversion, channel shifting reverse to surface slope and different sinuosity index values exhibit local tectonic deformations. Besides, lineament distribution & density index and earthquake history reflects neotectonic sensitivity of the interfluve. The analysis of morphotectonic parameters exhibit regional as well as local tectonic ambiguity across all physiographic zones. Hypsometric and basin asymmetry analysis based on second order streams and basins indicate small scale tectonic sensitivity across the interfluve. T-index results indicate tectonic deformations and significant neo-tectonism in different pockets. Bouguer gravity anomaly distribution and neotectonics influence zone map show various geomorphological surfaces with different levels of neotectonic activity. The study thus concludes that neotectonic controls have impacted the development of drainage networks in the Damodar-Kanshabati interfluve (DKI).