Exploring morphometric-based prioritization and tectonic implications of Kameng watershed, North-eastern Himalaya
Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, cilt.144, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 144
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.pce.2026.104767
- Dergi Adı: Physics and Chemistry of the Earth
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Chimica, Compendex, Geobase, INSPEC
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Active tectonics, MCDM models, Morphometric analysis, Stream length gradient-HCA, Topographic elevation and free-air gravity (FAG)
- Karadeniz Teknik Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
This study presents evidence of tectonic activities in the Kameng watershed, an intermountain watershed in the Arunachal Himalaya, India. Morphometric indices were employed to extract signals of active tectonic deformation within the watershed. Among the five MCDM models, the CODAS model showed relatively better performance. To corroborate the findings, the Stream Length Gradient-Hotspot and Cluster Analysis (SL-HCA) , the Topographic elevation and Free-Air Gravity (FAG) analysis were conducted. The results reveal notable contrasts in morphometric parameters in the northwestern part of the Kameng watershed, with the concentration of hotspots particularly in those sub-watersheds that were traversed by the MCT and STDS. FAG analysis shows a strong negative gravity gradient ranging from approximately 0 to −300 mGal across the Kameng watershed. This pattern may reflect lateral variations in crustal density, topographic loading, and possible deep-seated structural controls associated with the Himalayan tectonic framework. The underlying mechanisms driving these variations were interpreted within the frameworks of the Radial Expansion Model and the Oblique Convergence Model. An inferred semicircular geometry, estimated and delineated by previous studies as the subduction margin between two plates, spatially coincides with the northwestern part of the Kameng watershed, where enhanced tectonic sensitivity was recognized. This spatial association may relate to the observed arc-parallel extensional feature and the occurrence of a hot water spring (39°C) near Dirang along the Bichom River; however, no direct causal relationship is inferred in the present study.