Is India splitting apart? Gap in tectonic plates widening, say geologists

Unlike dense oceanic plates, continental plates like the Indian Plate resist subduction into Earth's mantle. (Image: AI generated)

The towering Himalayas, Earth's most iconic mountain range, continue to astonish scientists. Beneath their majestic peaks, the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates engage in a slow-motion collision that began 60 million years ago. This geological clash not only created the mountains but also harbours enigmatic processes deep below the surface.

Decoding the Indian Plate’s Hidden Movements
Unlike dense oceanic plates, continental plates like the Indian Plate resist subduction into Earth's mantle. Scientists have long debated its behaviour during its ongoing collision with the Eurasian Plate. Recent research proposes that parts of the Indian Plate may be delaminating, with its denser lower section peeling away.

This theory was supported by data from earthquake waves and gas samples from Tibetan springs. Helium isotopes indicated mantle rocks emerging where the plate separates. Researchers believe hot mantle material could be filling the gaps created by this detachment.

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Douwe van Hinsbergen, a geodynamicist at Utrecht University, noted: "We didn’t know continents could behave this way." These findings could provide new insights into tectonic activity and earthquake risks in the region.

Tears and Turbulence Beneath the Surface
Geologists believe the Indian Plate has experienced multiple tears due to varying thickness and composition. This explains the crescent shape of the 2,500-kilometre Himalayan front. A key area near Bhutan has revealed evidence of a fracture, with mantle rocks possibly flowing into the gaps.

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By mapping earthquake waves, scientists identified distinct blobs under the surface, suggesting sections of the plate have detached. Anne Meltzer, a seismologist at Lehigh University, emphasised the importance of studying these processes to understand how Earth’s landscapes have evolved.

Implications for Earthquake Hazards
Researchers are now exploring how plate tears might influence earthquakes in the region. Overlying the tear is the Cona-Sangri rift, a major fracture in the Tibetan Plateau. This could link plate delamination to surface disturbances, although further studies are needed to confirm this connection.

The findings add to our understanding of continental collisions, a process that has shaped much of Earth’s landmass. As scientists like Simon Klemperer continue their investigations, each discovery brings us closer to unravelling the dynamic forces shaping our planet.