The Analysis of Neotectonic Activities Evidence in Murghab Basin

Murghab River is one of the main tributaries of the Zayandeh River.  There have been no significant Neotectonic studies conducted in the riverchr('39')s basin. However, Shazand, Khansar and Dalan faults cross the basin. This study aimed to investigate the possibility of Neotectonic activities in a part of the Murghab basin near the Shazand fault.

A digital height model with an accuracy of 30 meters was prepared for this area and the geological layers were added afterward. The basin was divided into 18 sub-basins and Hi, Bs, Af, SL, S, Facet%, and V indices were calculated using Arc Map, Arc View and Global Amper software. The relative index of Active tectonics (IAT) was calculated, as well. Field visits were used for the complementary studies. All data were combined in the final analysis.

The relative index of active tectonic (IAT) shows that the majority of the sub-basins are active and semi-active. Along fault, some displacements were observed in the Slikenside of the fault. The network of streams in the Murghab Basin shows evidence that some of the streams have rotated 90-degree, which approves Neotectonic activities and lowering of the lake base level and its rupture in the studied area.

other nearby studies provide some evidence of the Shazand fault activity in this area. Highly likely tectonic activities in the future might be dangerous for people and facilities in the area and policymakers need to take it into consideration in future planning.