SRTM DEM based Neotectonics from Non-Linear Analysis: A Paradigm through Fractal Analysis

Abstract

Neotectonics amend the river base and causes landscape erosion. This study explores the DEM based differentiation of neotectonics in the northern regions of Pakistan. This method involves vertical and non-linear dissection base on digital evaluation method. This study uses Gliding Box Technique (GBM and GBT) and Box Counting method to evaluate Lacunarity (LA), Succolarity (SA) or 3-Fractals, and Fractal Dimensions (FD). 3-fractals are an attribute used for the recognition of spatial patterns, specifically to compute and differentiate natural textures including natural patterns. This study also investigates vertical dissection using DEM SRTM having spatial resolution of 90m. DEM SRTM measures surface area, plane area as well as the surface ratio. The vertical areas are investigated to make dissection maps and to identify the affects of neotectonics on the roughness of surface. Low value of surface roughness indicates flattened drainage basins and inclination of slope. The Raikot Fault shows higher values of surface roughness towards NE- SW. The surface roughness is mapped to recognize relative uplifts, uneven regions, depressions and pits. Analysis through non-linear method identifies the regions affected by neotectonics activity. Tectonics activity causes deformation and instability in drainage networks.