Geophysical delineation of the newly identified Gulmarg fault in the Kashmir Basin, NW Himalaya. Implications for active structural control

Abstract

The Kashmir Basin, shaped by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, features prominent faults, including the Balapur fault and other fault zones. This study focuses on the Gulmarg fault within the Northwestern Himalaya, using advanced geomagnetic techniques for delineation. Geomagnetic measurements reveal the characteristics of the newly identified Gulmarg fault. Ground magnetic surveys with Proton Precession Magnetometers along linear profiles and a magnetic grid highlight fault-related anomalies. The results indicate a fault running through the Gulmarg meadows, approximately 1.6 ​km from the Balapur fault, suggesting a potential coupling between the two. Three profiles across the fault exhibit distinctive magnetic variations, highlighting the intricate nature of the fault structure. Gridding methods also reveal anomalies associated with subsurface water and hydraulic activities, underscoring the importance of advanced geophysical techniques. This study emphasizes the significance of detailed investigations to unravel the complex geological processes shaping the Kashmir Basin. The study provides valuable insights into the tectonic activity in the Gulmarg region, underscoring the role of geophysical studies in enhancing our understanding of dynamic geological structures like the Gulmarg fault zone.