Geomorphology of the Lidder Basin,Kashmir Valley,Western Himalaya: Deciphering the interplay of glacial,fluvial,and tectonic processes

Abstract

The Lidder Basin, located in the tectonically active southeastern part of the Kashmir Valley, Western Himalaya, exhibits a highly dynamic geomorphic landscape shaped by Quaternary glaciation, fluvial reorganization, and neotectonic deformation. This study employs remote sensing, DEM-based terrain modeling, morphometric analysis, and field surveys to document glacial and fluvial landforms and evaluate tectonic controls on basin evolution. Glacial features such as U-shaped valleys, cirques, moraines, trimlines, and tarns record multiple phases of glacial advance and retreat. A prominent trimline near Chandanwari (∼2900 m asl) and several moraine-dammed lakes mark significant episodes of ice recession. Fluvial landforms, including terraces, braided bars, and alluvial fans, indicate sustained river incision and sediment redistribution. The Braiding Index (0.00549–0.0968) reveals moderate to high channel braiding, strongly influenced by topography and lithology. Morphometric indices, including Stream Length-Gradient (SL: 86.5–486.12) and Mountain Front Sinuosity (Smf: 1.0–1.6), point to active uplift and localized structural control. The clustering of knickpoints, abrupt channel steepening, and asymmetric terrace development suggest differential uplift and tectonic tilting across the basin. The presence of unpaired terraces and asymmetric entrenchment further supports basin-wide tectonic forcing and lateral channel migration. Collectively, these geomorphic signatures highlight the combined influence of glacial, fluvial, and tectonic processes in shaping the Lidder Basin. The findings underscore its importance for understanding landscape evolution in tectonically active orogenic settings and provide broader insights into the interplay between climate-driven glacial dynamics and neotectonic segmentation in the northwest Himalaya.