Tectonic breakthrough: Indian plate delaminating beneath Tibet, could split region in two, research reveals

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Research presented at the American Geophysical Union conference in San Francisco has revealed that the Indian tectonic plate is undergoing significant fragmentation beneath Tibet, indicating a complex geological process that may be reshaping the region. The groundbreaking study, led by geophysicist Lin Liu from Ocean University of China used seismic data gathered from 94 broadband stations across southern Tibet to analyze the dynamics of the tectonic plates involved.

The findings suggest that instead of smoothly subducting into the mantle the Indian plate is "delaminating." This means that its denser lower section is detaching and sinking into the mantle, while the lighter upper portion continues to slide horizontally beneath the Eurasian plate. This process is thought to be contributing not only to the growth of the Himalayas but also to the potential splitting of Tibet into two separate landmasses.

Historically, it has been believed that the Himalayas formed around 6 crore years ago as a result of the collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates. However, this new evidence challenges earlier assumptions about how these plates interact. The research shows that some parts of the Indian plate remain intact, while others are fragmenting at depths around 100 kilometers. This fragmentation could lead to significant geological changes in the future.

The implications of this discovery are significant, as it enhances our understanding of tectonic processes and could improve earthquake prediction methods in a region known for its seismic activity. The study underscores the intricate balance between tectonic forces and their impact on Earth's surface, offering a fresh perspective on one of the world’s most iconic landscapes. As scientists continue to analyze these findings, there is an increasing recognition of the need for further research to fully comprehend the long-term consequences of these tectonic movements on both the Himalayas and Tibet.