IISER MOHALI

Abstract: The Peninsular region of India comprises diverse landscapes, characterized by ancientProterozoic rocks. Generally regarded as a tectonically stable area, certain parts of this ancient terrainexhibit evidence of active tectonic processes through discernible geomorphic markers. Each river basinpossesses a unique evolutionary history, subject to analysis across different time scales. Thus, ourresearch primarily focused on Peninsular Rivers like Palar, Cauvery, Chambal, Luni, and Nyra, alongwith their adjacent rivers. These rivers showcase youthful features and geomorphic markers indicativeof tectonic and climatic variability, enabling us to reconstruct the long-term landscape development ofPeninsular India during the Late Quaternary Period. The assessment of tectonic controls on majorPeninsular Rivers involved investigating geomorphic markers such as fluvial and marine terraceformation, gorges, longitudinal profiles, morphotectonic indices of active tectonics, paleochannels, andriver capture. Our studies revealed distinct differences among West flowing, East flowing, and southernPeninsular Rivers. Geomorphic markers in westward rivers suggest predominant tectonic influence,with indications of major faults, gorges, and waterfalls, although the impact of rainfall cannot becompletely ruled out. The disequilibrium in West flowing rivers is characterized by these tectonicsignatures. In contrast, Southern Peninsular Rivers display morphological signs of disequilibrium, suchas knickpoints, waterfalls, and river migration. Hence, we interpreted the dynamic response ofPeninsular Rivers as a result of intricate interactions and feedback, arising from factors such asuplift/subsidence causing disequilibrium in both isostatic and tectonic forces, as well as Holocenemonsoon and base level changes.\n\nMeeting ID: 944 2649 3601\nPasscode: 070134\n