Nature and Timing of Sediment Flux Rates from the Indus River to the Arabian Sea

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole MA

Investigators

Abstract

The project will seek to understand the sediment distribution through space and time in the Indus basin and continental margin. Existing sediment provenance data around the Indus delta, continental shelf and fan cannot be explained by a simple "conveyor belt" transport system from mountains to deep-sea. The proponents frame the existing data in clear hypotheses of sediment flux to be tested with the help of additional samples and by linking an understanding of the sediment provenance study to the sediment dynamics of the drainage system. The link to recent human activity on the fluvial drainage will also be considered. The PIs plan to apply modern isotopic fingerprinting and dating techniques to study the history of flux and provenance of sediments. Cooperation with the local institutions in planned.