Morpho-Tectonic and Satellite Image Interpretation for Identifying Gardez Fault in Afghanistan

Bilal Jan Haji Muhammad; Wang Ping; Muhammad Jalal Mohabbat; Matiul Haq Patmal; Imtiaz Ahmad

Authors

Bilal Jan Haji Muhammad School of Geographical Sciences, Faculty of Cartology and Geography Information System, Northeast Normal university, Changchun 130024, Jilin, China.
Wang Ping School of Geographical Sciences, Faculty of Cartology and Geography Information System, Northeast Normal university, Changchun 130024, Jilin, China.
Muhammad Jalal Mohabbat Department of Geological Engineering and Exploration of Mines, Faculty of Mines and Geology, Kabul Polytechnic University, Kabul, Afghanistan.
Matiul Haq Patmal Department of Geological Engineering and Exploration of Mines, Faculty of Mines and Geology, Kabul Polytechnic University, Kabul, Afghanistan.
Imtiaz Ahmad School of Geographical Sciences, Faculty of Cartology and Geography Information System, Northeast Normal university, Changchun 130024, Jilin, China.

Keywords:

Tectonic, Fault, GIS, RS

Abstract

Afghanistan experiences major geological changes since it is situated in a tectonically active area where the Eurasian and Indian plates collide. The influence of the convergence reaches hundreds of kilometers beyond the boundary of the southeastern plate. High mountain ranges are shaped by the faulting, folding, and uplifting of rocks; these formations are like a complicated jigsaw puzzle, with each piece revealing a different geological narrative. During fieldwork, using a Keyhole Markup Language Zipped (KMZ) file made comprehension easier. The left-lateral strike-slip character of the active Gardez fault was revealed by combining precise image analysis and correlation with satellite imagery, which was essential for comprehensive insights during laboratory processing. Our knowledge was significantly enhanced by the topographic representation of the Sarobi fault. The Cimmerian Kandahar arc and the active Chaman and Gardez faults to the west surrounded the Katawaz basin, which was the subject of the investigation. Geological boundaries were emphasized by ophiolites situated along the north-south axial strip towards the east. Pliocene sediments predominate, and recurring tremors indicate that block movements are still occurring, which could be a sign of impending large earthquakes. This study combines morpho-tectonic analysis with the interpretation of satellite images to reveal the characteristics of the active Gardez fault and comprehend the larger geological background of Afghanistan. The results provide insightful information on dynamic geological processes and have implications for future mitigation initiatives in the area as well as the assessment of seismic danger.

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