Tectonic Framework and Subsurface Stratigraphy of the Ganga Basin

Significant data on the structure, tectonics and stratigraphy of Ganga basin have been obtained from aeromagnetic, ground magnetic, gravity and seismic surveys and the deep drilling conducted in the basin during the last fifteen years, Based on these data, the Ganga basin has been defined as a major platform depression and classified into seven tectonic zones, viz., Monghyr-Saharsa ridge, East Uttar Pradesh shelf, Gandak depression, Faizabad ridge, West Uttar Pradesh shelf, Sarda depression and Delhi-Hardwar ridge. This classification is based on the continuation of major tectonic trends from the Peninsular shield into the Ganga basin, the variations in the total thickness of the sedimentary cover, and the basement configuration as deduced from different surveys.

The sedimentary cover over most part of the Ganga basin is essentially composed of two main stratigraphic cum structural sequences representing the two main sedimentary stages in the geological evolution of the basin. The oldest, probably corresponding to the Vindhyans, is represented by stable to unstable shelf sediments composed of quartz-arenite-limestone-shale alternations. The younger sequence, unconformably overlying the Vindhyans, corresponds to the Neogene terrigenous clastics (Siwaliks). The structural and stratigraphic data of these sediments have been discussed. The presence of a profound unconformity between these two groups of sediments representing a considerable time gap ranging from (?) late Palaeozoic to Paleogene is an important factor in deciphering the tectonic evolution of the Himalaya. However, towards the northernmost depressed parts of the Ganga Basin, the age of the additional thickness of sediments intervening between the two above mentioned groups remains uncertain.