Integrated geomorphic and InSAR-based assessment of active tectonics in the Ken River Basin, Central Indian Craton

Intracratonic seismicity is often focused along inherited Precambrian structures, where the slip rates are generally low (<1 mm/yr) but sufficient to generate significant seismic hazard with recurrence intervals of 10³ to 10⁵ years. The Central Indian craton and its vicinity are characterized by slow tectonic readjustments occurring within a mechanically heterogeneous cratonic crust. Recent studies observed morphometric anomalies, structural reactivation, and regional seismicity imply possible neotectonic rejuvenation in the region. We investigate the present-day landscape evolution within 5 sub-basins of Ken River basin of central Indian craton using RIAT and InSAR techniques. Morphometric analysis reveals spatial variability in basin asymmetry, transverse topographic symmetry, and hypsometric characteristics, indicating differential geomorphic maturity and localized disequilibrium across the study region. Longitudinal river profiles, together with stream-length gradient (SL) and steepness (ksn) indices, identify knickpoints and anomalous steepness zones that correspond with mapped faults and lithological boundaries, suggesting structural control on channel incision. InSAR-derived deformation patterns show heterogeneous surface movement, with localized uplift and subsidence aligned along structural trends, supporting ongoing crustal adjustment. Field observations further validate these results. The combined evidence indicates localized neotectonic activity influencing drainage evolution and landscape development in the Ken River Basin.