Evaluation of Fractal Dimension and Topographic Surface Roughness (Vertical Dissection) in Astore-Deosai-Skardu Region in GIS Environment Using ASTER GDEM

Abstract

Fractal investigation is a valuable technique to model and quantify the composite patterns of natural similar objects. This study investigates Neotectonics using ASTER-GDEM. Fractal technique for extraction of topographic fractal dimension (D_topo) and vertical dissection (R_topo-surf) were used to assess the Neotectonics deformation. Geomorphological regions can be demarcated by using above mentioned procedures as they reveal the topographic evolutionary stages as an evaluation of topographic textures. The idea is to recognize the zones that are strongly influenced by Neotectonics. Astore-Deosai-Skardu (ADS) region in Gilgit-Baltistan was selected for this purpose as it lies between MKT and MMT which is experiencing surface topographic deformation (STD) caused by anti-clock-wise progression and subduction of Indian plate beneath Eurasia. The results obtained illustrates that D_topo and R_topo-surf show anomalies in the ADS region that clearly represent a robust control of nearby MMT, MKT and KkF and highlights their significance to describe regions vulnerable to Neotectonics and related deadly events threatening precious human lives and infrastructure damages.