River Metamorphosis During Damuda Sedimentation: A Case Study from Talchir Gondwana Basin, Orissa

Abstract

Abstract The Karharbari, Barakar and Barren Measures Formations of the Damuda Group of Talchir Gondwana Basin show noticeable differences in their lithic fill. The Karharbari Formation represents syntectonic phase of sedimentation where as, the Barakar and Barren Measures Formations represent post-tectonic stable phases. The stream parameters of these three formations were determined objectively employing empirical equations worked out from modern streams. Stream parameters like depth, width, meander wavelength, annual discharge, normal and clast flow velocities decrease from Karharbari to Barakar sedimentation and increase from Barakar to Barren Measures sedimentation. Sediment load parameter, channel slope, flood stage velocity and Froude number, on the other hand, record alternatively increasing and decreasing trend while channel sinuosity show a steady increasing trend with advancement of Damuda sedimentation. Results suggest that during Damuda sedimentation the streams underwent metamorphosis, which may be attributed to tectonism in the source area and gradual denudation of the depositional surface coupled with possible changes in climatic condition.