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Hurricanes can trigger widespread landslides and flooding creating compound hazards and multiple risks for vulnerable populations. An example is the island of Dominica in the Caribbean, where the population lives predominantly along the coast close to sea level and is subject to storm surge, with steep topography rising behind, with a propensity for landslides and flash river flooding. The simultaneous occurrence of the multiple hazards amplifies their impacts and couples with physical and social vulnerabilities to threaten lives, livelihoods, and the environment. Neglecting compound hazards underestimates overall risk. Using a whole island macroscale, (level-I) analysis, susceptibility scenarios for hurricanes, triggered landslides, and floods were developed by incorporating physical process parameters. The susceptibilities were combined with vulnerability indicators to map spatial patterns of hurricane multi-risks in Dominica. The analysis adopted a coupled approach involving the frequency ratio (FR), analytic hierarchy process (AHP), and geographic information system (GIS). Detailed hazard modelling was done at selected sites (level-II), incorporating storm surge estimates, landslide runout simulations, and steady flow analysis for floods. High-resolution terrain data and simulation models, the Rapid Mass Movement Simulation (RAMMS) and the hydrologic engineering center's river analysis system (HEC-RAS), were employed. Ground validation confirmed reasonable agreement between projected and observed scenarios across different spatial scales. Following the United Nations Office for disaster risk reduction (UNDRR) call for the inclusion of local, traditional, and indigenous knowledge, feedback, and expert opinion to improve understanding of disaster risk, 17 interviews with local experts and 4 participatory workshops with residents were conducted, and findings were incorporated into the analysis, so as to gain insights into risk perceptions. The study's outcomes encompass projections and quantification of hurricane compound hazards, vulnerabilities, accumulated risks, and an understanding of local priorities. These findings will inform decision-making processes for risk mitigation choices and community actions by providing a new framework for multi-hazard risk assessment that is easy to implement in combining different data forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precipitation regimes in terms of magnitude, intensity, and frequency have a direct and immediate impact on the occurrence of landslides. Kashmir Himalaya is a hotspot of landslide activity; however, not much research has been carried out on the interplay of precipitation and landslides, despite precipitation being a key factor for landslide occurrence in the area. The current study constructed the landslide history (1990–2020) of the Kashmir Himalaya (Kashmir valley and NH-44) and established a correlation of past landslide events with extreme precipitation indices. Analysis of the rainfall pattern was carried out by deriving a suite of indices pertaining to the triggering mechanism of landslides. The relationship between the indices and landslide occurrences was evaluated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and their temporal tendencies were assessed using Man Kendall’s Tau test and Sen’s slope estimator. The results show that there is a moderate to strong annual concentrated precipitation distribution, depicting the seasonality in both precipitation and landslide distribution patterns. The extreme precipitation indices and the landslide occurrences show a positive correlation; however, the relationship is stronger along the NH-44. The projected changes in the climate are likely to influence the behavior of the extreme climate events and enhance future landslide activity in the region. The recognizable evidence describing the interaction of extreme precipitation events and the landslide activity in this study is expected to be useful for minimizing the impact of landslides in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predicting the occurrence and spatial patterns of rainfall induced flash floods is still a challenge. Instant genesis and typically smaller areal coverage of the flash floods are the major impediments to their forecasting. Analysis of the morphometric parameters provides useful insight on hydrological response of the drainage basins to high intensity rainfall events. This information is valuable for understanding the flash flood potential of the drainage basins and for evading the destructions caused by the hazard. Here, we use eighteen morphometric parameters that influence the runoff volume, flow velocity, and inundation depth scenario of a flash flood. The analysis has been carried out for simulating the relative flash flood susceptibility of thirteen watersheds (B1 to B13) of variable sizes in southeastern Bangladesh. The morphometric parameters were derived from Digital Elevation Model (DEM) using Geographic Information System (GIS). The evaluated basin parameters include: area (A), perimeter (P), length (Lb), stream order (Su), stream number (Nu), stream length (Lu), stream frequency (Fs), drainage density (Dd), texture ratio (Rt), bifurcation ratio (Rb), basin relief (Hr), relief ratio (Rr), ruggedness number (Rn), time of concentration (Tc), infiltration number (If), and form factor (F). Two relative flash flood susceptibility scenarios were generated: (i) general watershed level, and (ii) more precise pixel level status. The watershed level comparison reveals that B4 and B6 watersheds constituting 72.61% of the total area are 'very high' susceptible, whereas the susceptibility of the other watersheds has been found as 'high' [B5 (6.95%)], 'moderate' [B8 and B13 (8.63%)], 'low' [B2, B10, B11 (4.64%)], and 'very low' [B1, B3, B7, B9, and B12 (7.18%)]. The derived watershed susceptibility map was subsequently integrated with two spatial analysis algorithms i.e., topographic wetness index (TWI) and topographic position index (TPI) through overlay analysis. The integration helped to understand the combined role of the general watershed morphometry and the in situ topography for determining the flash flood susceptibility of each spot (30 m × 30 m) within all the selected watersheds. The quantitative analysis and characterization of the watersheds from the perspective of flash flood hazard in this investigation is expected to be useful for implementing the site-specific mitigation measures and alleviating the effects of the hydrological hazard in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to carry out the flood frequency analysis (FFA) of river Jhelum in Kashmir basin. Gumbel and Log-Pearson Type III (LP3) probability distributions were employed for simulating the future flood discharge scenarios using annual peak flow data (1956–2014) from three gauging stations of the River Jhelum. The predicted design floods of various return periods (Tr) i.e., 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 200 were obtained and compared. The findings reveal that the estimated discharge of all the return periods exceeds the current average carrying capacity (∼35000 cusecs in Srinagar) of the river. It is thus likely that any flood event with the return period of five years or above would overflow the banks of the River Jhelum. Furthermore, the present study demonstrates that the river discharge can be satisfactorily projected by any one of the used probability distribution methods; however, as revealed by the goodness-of-fit test, Log-Pearson Type III was found to be the better fitted probability distribution among the two. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In general the genesis of the Kashmir basin is being viewed as a result of compressional tectonics, perhaps because of the reason that the basin is located in India-Eurasia convergence zone. However, there is no work that convincingly demonstrates how existing geomorphic architecture of the Kashmir basin evolved due to thrust tectonics? With answer to many questions Alam et al., (2015) proposed an extensional model for the development of the Kashmir basin. Moreover, based on deformation styles at varied spatial scales Alam et al., (2017) also suggested the co-existence of dominant extensional and relatively feeble compressional deformations within the basin. Shah (2017) just on the basis of deliberate misinterpretations, recycling of copied text, unrealistic one dimensional cartoons, and as always not for scientific reasons expresses disagreement with Alam et al., (2017). Thus, while responding to the bafflement of Shah (2017), we throw further light on hybrid tectonic character of the Kashmir basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to assess the tectonic activity in the Erin basin (NE Kashmir) on the basis of several relevant geomorphic indices and field observations. We use Digital Elevation Model (SRTM) and Survey of India (SoI) topographic maps in GIS environment to compute the geomorphic indices. The indices i.e., convex hypsometric curve, high hypsometric integral value (H i  > 0.5), low basin elongation ratio (Eb = 0.17), low mountain front sinuosity values (S mf  = 1.08 average), low valley floor width ratios (Vf < 1), topographic assymetric character (T < 1), uneven basin asymmetry factor (AF < 50), elongated shape (Bs > 4) suggest that the area is tectonically active. Moreover, prominent irregularities (knickpoints/knickzones) along longitudinal profile of the Erin River even in homogenous resistant lithology (Panjal trap) and anomalous stream gradient index (SL) values reflect that the Erin basin is dissected by two faults (EF-1 and EF-2) with NNW-SSE and SSW-NNE trends respectively. The results of this preliminary study further substantiate the recent GPS studies, which argue that the maximum strain is accumulating in the NE part of the Kashmir Himalaya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessing the tourism potential of mountain destinations is crucial for successful and sustainable tourism planning. Tourism potential indicates the development and success of tourism in various regions and destinations. The present study deals with the mathematical model evaluation of the tourism potential of the north-western Himalayas. The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the tourism potential of the two Himalayan destinations through a comparative study using a quantitative approach. The model employs the weighted sum method (WSM) to calculate potential tourism values. A simple random sampling technique with a structured questionnaire (N = 440) was used to accomplish the research objective. The results indicate that Sonamarg, with a value of (V = 0.630), has a medium, while Doodhpathri, with a value of (V = 0.398), has a low potential. Overall, the findings determine the significance of enhancing the tourist infrastructure and quality of service, strengthening ties with other tourism sites, and broadening tourism offerings to augment the allure of destinations and pave the way for a more diversified and thriving tourism industry. Unlocking the hidden potential of these destinations requires a holistic approach that considers the destination’s unique natural, cultural, and social aspects while promoting sustainable tourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new interpretation of overlapping differential deformations and likely causes of the structural heterogeneity within the Kashmir basin. Representing a prominent and distinctive strain feature in NW Himalaya, the broad geomorphic expression of the Kashmir as an elongated NW-SE trending sedimentary trough is inconsistent with general compression governing structural trend and deformation pattern of ∼2500 km long Himalayan Frontal Thrust zone. In addition to the general extensional geometry, there are prominent anomalous deformation features at varied spatial scales in the basins that imply dominance of extensional tectonics. We infer that contrary to the overall compression dominant mechanism of the Himalaya, the apparent extensional geometry of the basin connotes orogen-parallel extensional deformation (pull-apart), triggered by oblique convergence in the NW Himalaya. Moreover, we construe that the comparatively younger contractile (positive) features in form of the geomorphic convexity (push-up), accompanied by out-of-sequence reverse faulting (Balapur Fault, hereafter called as BF) within the basin which is generally believed to be associated with the uplift along NE dipping southern thrust complex (MBT/MCT), possibly resulted due to the tectonic reversal (positive inversion). The presence of the compressional features within the locally predominant extensional setting is suggestive of the basin's hybrid character—where variable tectonic regimes (earlier extension and subsequent compression) seem to be coexistent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented in response to the article "Earthquake geology of Kashmir Basin and its implications for future large earthquakes" published in the 2013 issue of the journal.

This research article provides added evidence in support of the already presented tectonic evolution model of the Kashmir basin by Alam et al. (2015), which states that the local dextral strike–slip structure, embedded with the southern forefront thrust system (MBT/MCT), resulted in the development of the NNW–SSE-oriented elliptical pull-apart sedimentary trough (Kashmir basin). Simultaneously, we respond to the argument of Shah (2015), wherein the author expresses his concern about the tectonic evolution model proposed by Alam et al. (2015). The commentator (Shah, 2015)—merely based on assumptions (1: perfectly planar geometry of the central Kashmir fault-CKF; 2: pure strike–slip along the CKF) and misinterpretations of the data (tectonic, geologic, structural, seismic, geodetic, and geomorphic)—makes extraneous criticism throughout the length of his commentary by referring copied text/figures. However, Alam et al. (2015) projected the CKF as noticeably curvilinear major exhibiting complex strike–slip tectonics (dextral, lateral, and vertical motion). Moreover, contradictory to the claim of Shah (2015), the tectonic, geologic, structural, seismic, geodetic, and geomorphic data is in complete agreement with the model proposed by Alam et al. (2015). Hence, in addition to complimentary evidence for the dextral strike–slip, pull-apart evolution of the Kashmir basin, a detailed response is provided to the commentary of Shah (2015). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Balapur fault (BF) is a high angle thrust fault (reverse), dipping ~ 60° NE, with an established length of ~ 40 km striking NW–SE of the Kashmir basin. However, geomorphic traces suggest that the strike of the BF propagates beyond what has been documented previously. The present investigation aims to identify the unrecognized segment of the BF in the SW of the Kashmir basin using hypsometric variability in longitudinal profiles (knickpoints/zones), followed by validation through stream gradient index ( SL ) calculations of the rivers draining the area. The longitudinal profiles of all the streams indicate prominent and consistent anomalies in the upper and mid-reaches even on the coarse resolution data (Survey of India topographic maps — 1:50,000/40 m, DEM-SRTM 90 m). The profile anomalies in the upper reaches (hard rock zone) of the streams may be attributed to lithological contacts, i.e., Panjal trap agglomeratic slate–shale–limestone. However, the river profile convex segments and course deflection specifically in the mid-reaches (soft rock zone) are most likely associated with recent tectonic activity. Geomorphic signatures suggest that these anomalies coincide with the strike of the recognized segment of the BF. Moreover, the SL values of each stream express a clear agreement with the anomalies shown by the long profiles of the rivers. Hence, we infer that the strike of the BF extends for a significant distance (~ 95 km) over the northeastern flank of the Pir Panjal range in the NW–SE direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geomorphology has long been recognised as a key to evaluate the interplay between tectonics and landscape geometry in the regions of active deformation. We use geomorphic signatures at varied spatial scales interpreted from SRTM-DEM/Landsat-ETM data, supplemented with field observations to review the tectonic evolution of Kashmir basin in northwest Himalayas. Geomorphic evidence is persuasive of a credible NNW–SSE trending dextral strike–slip structure (central Kashmir Fault — CKF), with the strike length of ~ 165 km, stretched centrally over the NNW–SSE length of the Kashmir basin. As a result of the strike–slip motion and subsequent erosion, significant deformation has taken place along the CKF. In addition, broad geomorphic architecture of the basin reveals typical pull-apart characteristics. Hence, we deduce that the Kashmir basin has evolved as a pull-apart Quaternary sediment depression owing to the deformation along the central Kashmir Fault. The spatial distribution pattern of seismic events (NEIC-catalogue, 1973–2013) and GPS measurements (published), collectively substantiate our geomorphic interpretations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Srinagar city experienced significant expansion especially during the last four decades, which has negatively impacted its aquatic resources and their functioning. The present study aims to assess the impact of the urban growth on the natural drainage network of the Srinagar city from 1971 to 2020. The changes in the morphometry of natural drainage and urban morphology were quantified through the selected indicators. Four sample sites were selected from the study area for detailed ground validation of the quantified changes. Our results reveal that there has been almost a fourfold increase in the built-up area, taking place in all the directions, primarily in the form of edge expansion that has largely encroahed the urban streams. The findings further indicate that on the whole drainage system of the city has lost almost 15% of its total capacity. The effects of increasing built-up warrant immediate attention to initiate conservation measures for the natural drainage network of the city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study intends to assess the climatic controls on the streamflow and its impacts on the changing form of hydrological extremes in the Jhelum basin. The study entails robust statistical analysis of the observed hydroclimatic data (1980–2016) using the standard procedures of trend and abrupt change point detection, flood frequency analysis (FFA), and streamflow drought index (SDI). The coupled impact of rising temperatures (0.024 °C/year) and diminishing precipitation (− 5.71 mm/year) is yielding substantial decreases in the streamflow of the Jhelum basin. The other manifestations of changing climatic regimes are the increasing trends in the spring season (March-May) streamflow and the concurrence of abrupt change points in the streamflow data with climatic variables. The climate change signals are well evident over the hydrological extremes, reflected in an enhanced occurrence of droughts through the latter half of the examined period. Moreover, the flood frequency estimates show that the magnitude of the peak discharges about different return periods has increased significantly during 1986–2016 compared to 1956–1985 estimates. The magnitude of 100-year recurrence interval flood has increased by 10.54–79.58% during 1986–2016. The current study calls for the inclusive restructuring of water management practices to offset the impacts of changing hydrological extremes in the basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • T_COPs are a unique set of triptycene based covalent organic polymers with abundant imine groups and π-rich environment. • T_COPs are characterized by FTIR, FESEM, EDX, solid state 13C NMR and low temperature N 2 gas uptake isotherm. • T_COPs are amorphous, thermally stable and microporous with high surface area up to 826 m2 g−1. • T_COPs demonstrate very high iodine uptake up to 4860 mg g−1. • T_COPs are recyclable as iodine adsorbents for at least five cycles. Nuclear energy is considered as the best alternative to fossil fuel to meet the ever-increasing global electricity demand. Nuclear electricity generation is not associated with direct emission of greenhouse gases unlike thermal power plants. On the flipside, tackling nuclear waste and spent fuel is a major issue, which becomes even more challenging due to the presence of volatile radionuclides such as 131I and 129I. In unfortunate events of accidental release of fission products in the environment, 131I and 129I are considered as the most dreaded air pollutants. Therefore, development of materials for efficient and rapid uptake/storage of 129I or 131I, is a research topic of utmost importance in this context. Herein, we report unique triptycene based covalent organic polymers (T_COPs) derived from benzene-1,3,5-tricarbaldehyde derivatives possessing varying number of hydroxy groups. The microporous T_COPs feature presence of abundant imine groups and π-rich environment. Interestingly, we observed that varying the number of hydroxy groups in T_COPs alter their surface area as well as their iodine uptake capacity. T_COPs exhibited ultra-high iodine uptake up to 4860 mg/g, which is superior compared to previously reported COPs. For practical applications, the T_COPs can be reused up to five cycles with smaller loss in the uptake performance - a desirable feature expected in a superior adsorbent. Our results reflect immense potential of these triptycene based COPs for environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frequency and severity of climatic extremes is expected to escalate in the future primarily because of the increasing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. This study aims to assess the impact of climate change on the extreme temperature and precipitation scenarios using climate indices in the Kashmir Himalaya. The analysis has been carried out for the twenty-first century under different representative concentration pathways (RCPs) through the Statistical Downscaling Model (SDSM) and ClimPACT2. The simulation reveals that the climate in the region will get progressively warmer in the future by increments of 0.36–1.48 °C and 0.65–1.07 °C in mean maximum and minimum temperatures respectively, during 2080s (2071–2100) relative to 1980–2010 under RCP8.5. The annual precipitation is likely to decrease by a maximum of 2.09–6.61% (2080s) under RCP8.5. The seasonal distribution of precipitation is expected to alter significantly with winter, spring, and summer seasons marking reductions of 9%, 5.7%, and 1.7%, respectively during 2080s under RCP8.5. The results of extreme climate evaluation show significant increasing trends for warm temperature-based indices and decreasing trends for cold temperature-based indices. Precipitation indices on the other hand show weaker and spatially incoherent trends with a general tendency towards dry regimes. The projected scenarios of extreme climate indices may result in large-scale adverse impacts on the environment and ecological resource base of the Kashmir Himalaya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bangladesh has a long history of devastating tropical cyclones. In view of the effects of the storms on the country, risk assessment is essential for devising the mitigation strategies at various levels. By way of bringing the conceptual structure of general risk model in practice, this work aims to examine the spatial patterns of cyclone risk in the Cox's Bazar district (I) and Rohingya refugee camps (II) located on the southeastern coast of Bangladesh. We use 14 parameters representing the hazard, exposure, and vulnerability as the components of risk. The selected parameters were analyzed and integrated though the complementary use of Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Geographic Information System (GIS) for depicting the cyclone risk situation comprehensively at both the spatial scales. The status of the cyclone risk was identified and quantified as very high (6.84%, 3.43%), high (45.78%, 27.82%), moderate (5.97%, 39.42%), low (40.62%, 28.70%), and very low (0.81%, 0.61%) for the spatial scale I and II respectively. In general, northwestern and southern peripheral areas exhibited higher risk than the central and northeastern parts of the Cox's Bazar district; and in the refugee settlements, camp number 1E, 1W, 7, and 13 revealed relatively higher levels of the risk. The results of the assessment (I) were correlated with experiential damage from the 1991 cyclone; a reasonable consistency was noticed between the simulated scenario and the observed impacts. We assume that the deliverables of this spatial analysis could be useful to stakeholders while formulating the cyclone risk mitigation policies for the region. Furthermore, this work demonstrates that the applied method would deliver reliable results if tested in other coastal environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The above article from Disasters, published online on 24 June 2019 in Wiley Online Library (http://wileyonlinelibrary.com) has been withdrawn by agreement between the authors, the Journal Editors, Sara Pantuliano, John Twigg, Helen Young and Matthew Foley, and John Wiley & Sons Ltd., on behalf of Overseas Development Institute. Reference Ahmad, B., Alam, A., Bhat, M. S. and Bhat, K. A. (2019), Reconstructing disasters and adaptation scenario of nineteenth-century Kashmir. Disasters. Accepted Author Manuscript. doi:10.1111/disa.12364 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of direct arylation polymerization (DArP) as a viable strategy to obtain porous organic polymers (POPs) has not been explored to its full potential. Instead, other strategies (such as conventional cross-coupling reactions) are usually employed to yield POPs that employ expensive organometallic monomers whose syntheses require multiple steps. Herein, using DArP, three fluorinated porous organic polymers (fPOPs: TFPP1 , TFPP2 and TFPP3) were obtained that represent unique examples of triptycene motif containing fluorine rich network polymers. These thermally stable polymers (T d > 400 °C with high char yields at 800 °C) are predominantly microporous with high surface areas (up to 1295 m2/g) and thus satisfy the requirement for facilitating superior adsorption of small gas molecules. The recorded CO 2 , CH 4 , and H 2 uptake capacities of fPOPs are superior than several previously reported fluorinated/non-fluorinated POPs. High CO 2 uptake capacities of fPOPs are due to the incorporation of ample triptycene motifs and polar C–F bonds in the polymeric backbone. Overall, the high thermal stability, surface area and sorption capacities demonstrated by these fluorinated polymers render them potential materials for the applications in capture of CO 2 and storage of CH 4 /H 2. Synthesis of a set of three unique triptycene based fluorinated porous organic polymers via direct C–H arylation and their efficient uptake of CO 2 , CH 4 and H 2. [Display omitted] • Unique report of three triptycene based "fluorinated" porous organic polymers. • Facile polymer syntheses from commercially available fluorinated monomers. • Polymers are microporous with high surface areas (up to 1295 m2/g). • Polymers have high thermal stabilities (T onset up to 582 °C) and (T d up to 626 °C). • Improved CO 2 uptake (upto 160 mg/g) relative to several reported fluorinated POPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Kashmir has a long written history of 5000 years, which provides a sketchy picture of historical earthquakes. In all, we collated details of 16 earthquakes from the historical scribes. Most of the earthquakes had their epicenters outside the Kashmir Valley. The exceptions (earthquakes with epicenters within the valley), however, caused severe damage to life and properties and were associated with ground ruptures and long periods of aftershocks. Among them, only the 1885 event is adequately described. We have analyzed environmental effects of this destructive earthquake which occurred in the northwestern Kashmir Himalaya along Pir Panjal range in the early morning (5.00 a.m) of 30 May, 1885. Using archival sources followed by field work, the present attempt envisages applying the Environmental Seismic Intensity scale (ESI 2007) for a macroseismic intensity assessment of the 1885 Baramulla Earthquake. Inferences (primary and secondary) reveal that the 1885 Baramulla earthquake local intensity would have been VI–X on the ESI scale. Baramulla, the macroseismic epicenter of the earthquake, must have witnessed epicentral intensity of X on ESI scale. The intensity must have been variable, severe at Baramulla and less at Srinagar, because of the severity of damage decreased from NW to SE. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Coal-fired power plants are the highest contributors to global electricity generation. Flue gases from thermal power plants are rich in carbon dioxide. Thus, thermal plants also contribute substantially to the annual increase in the concentration of atmospheric CO 2 (greenhouse gas) which in turn leads to increased global warming and ocean acidification. Solutions to these problems are either capture of carbon dioxide from flue gas or exploring alternative sources of power generation such as nuclear energy. However, volatile radioactive byproducts produced in nuclear plants need to be arrested by a suitable adsorbent. Herein, for the first time, we report a triptycene-based hypercrosslinked porous polymer (TBHCP-OH) that contains CO 2 -philic groups (–OH and –N N–). It was obtained using a simple Friedel–Crafts alkylation reaction. Mesoporous TBHCP-OH has high CO 2 capture capacity (87.6 mg/g) and excellent iodine vapor uptake capacity (2600 mg/g). This iodine uptake capacity is the highest among all triptycene based polymers reported till date. This may be attributed to the ample supramolecular interactions between arene/heteroatoms (O and N in TBHCP-OH) and iodine. The facile and simple synthesis of TBHCP-OH as well as its ability to efficiently capture pollutants renders it a promising material for environmental remediation. [Display omitted] • Design of a new triptycene based monomer with active CO2-philic (–N N– and –OH) and N2-phobic (azo) groups. • Facile synthesis of a mesoporous triptycene polymer (TBHCP-OH) with azo and phenolic functionalities via knitting strategy. • TBHCP-OH shows high CO 2 uptake of 8.76 wt.% at 273 K and 1 bar pressure which is comparable with monoethanolamine. • TBHCP-OH selectively captures CO 2 over N 2 at 1 bar which improves at higher temperature [273K (23) and 298 K (28)]. • High I 2 vapor adsorption capacity of TBHCP-OH (up to 2600 mg/g) is best among triptycene based polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Facile synthesis of triptycene based nitrogen rich hyper crosslinked polymers (TNHCPs). • TNHCPs show surface area up to 848 m2 g−1. • TNHCPs exhibit H 2 adsorption capacity up to 15.3 mg g−1 at 77 K and 1 bar pressure. • TNHCPs show CO 2 capture capacity up to 160 mg/g (at 273 K and 1 bar pressure) and CO 2 /N 2 selectivity up to 45 at 273 K. • TNHCPs capture iodine vapour (up to 250 wt%) and iodide ions from aqueous solutions (up to 854 mg/g). Triptycene based polymeric networks are rapidly emerging as porous organic polymers (POPs) for efficient capture of small gas molecules. Further, such triptycene based frameworks are also being explored as adsorbents for radioactive iodine. Herein, a group of three unique "Triptycene based and Nitrogen-rich Hyper Crosslinked Polymers" (TNHCP s) have been easily obtained via the well-known Friedel-Craft alkylation reactions of triptycene with six-membered N-rich heterocycles. In these TNHCP s, the presence of triptycene motifs yields contorted and rigid polymeric frameworks with plenty of micropores and ultramicropores. Further, the presence of N-rich heterocycles increases their efficiency to selectively capture carbon dioxide and adsorb iodine vapours as well as iodide ions from aqueous solutions. Comparison with data in recent literature reveals that TNHCP s are better in these domains than several previously reported POPs in general and HCPs in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Torrential rains, landslides, and seismic activity are the common factors that are causing unprecedented damage to life, property and infrastructure in Mandakini and Bhilangana basins of Garhwal Himalaya. Owing to such conditions, we demonstrate the feedback this landscape in Garhwal Himalaya in response to episodic tectonic uplift and monsoon precipitation. We calculated conventional geomorphic parameters to access the tectonic deformation across the major thrusts and faults. We further analyzed the normalized steepness index (K sn), Chi (χ), and knickpoints along the longitudinal course of rivers. Additionally, the study attributed to active nature of Chail/Ramgarh thrust along the Balganga valley as envisaged by five levels of unpaired fluvial terraces, entrenched stream course, river ponding, active and stabilized landslide deposits, etc. Moreover, the flooding during the heavy rainfall events induced river toe cutting makes an effect on settlement over fluvial deposits. Therefore, we suggested that the highly dissected and tilted basins with deep V shaped valleys and ongoing seismicity also fabricates the region more vulnerable for hazards which threaten the human lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A design and synthesis of three unique triptycene based polymers containing azo linkages in the side chain of polymer backbone is being reported herein for the first time. These triptycene based azo-polymers (TBAPs) have high solubility in common organic solvents due to the presence of pendent alkyl chains as well as triptycene motifs. TBAPs are well characterized by GPC, TGA, 1H NMR, FTIR, PXRD, FESEM, UV and fluorescence spectroscopy. Polymers with azo-linkages are generally non-fluorescent. However, TBAP s are fluorescent in nature which makes them unique. It was observed that TBAP3 having the longest pendent alkyl chain is most fluorescent when compared with TBAP1 and TBAP2 (which have smaller pendent alkyl chains). Furthermore, TBAP s have been applied for the detection of trace quantities of PA in THF. The binding constants of TBAP s with PA are in the order of 105 M−1 and the PA can be detected even in nanomolar concentrations. It was observed that TBAP1 having the smallest pendent alkyl chain has the highest binding affinity for PA relative to TBAP2 and TBAP3 (having longer pendent alkyl chains). Further, the effect of the chain length on the supramolecular assembly of these polymers was observed using FESEM. The size of domains present in polymer films was found to increase with increasing chain length of alkyl group. • Three unique triptycene based fluorescent polymers with azo motif in the side chain are being reported. • TBAP3 with longest pendent alkyl chain shows enhanced fluorescence relative to other TBAPs (with smaller alkyl group). • TBAPs bind strongly with PA as evident from their binding and quenching constants which are in the order of 105 M-1. • The polymer with smaller pendent alkyl chain has more favorable interaction with picric acid. • FESEM images show that domain size of polymers tends to increase upon increasing the alkyl chain length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims at assessing the tectonic and climatic responses to landscape changes transpired in the Durung Drung basin in the Zanskar Himalaya. We used relevant geomorphic indices interpreted from ASTER DEM satellite data and supplemented by the field observations to decipher active tectonics and resultant changes in the landscape. A N-S trending fault in the north of the basin was studied with the help of basin geometry which includes relative parameter, length area relation, form factor, shape factor ratio, elongation ratio, circulatory ratio, compactness coefficient and morphotectonic indices (e.g., drainage basin asymmetry, mountain front sinuosity, hypsometric integral, topographic symmetric factor) to comprehend the geomorphic signatures of the active tectonics. The geomorphic indices indicate upliftment and tilting of the basin. The data on mountain front index and hypsometric integral reveal the uplift and high relief. We propose that the western side of the basin is tectonically more active than eastern side, suggesting active upliftment. The convex nature of hypsometric curve and strongly elongated circulatory ratio reflect competing role of deformation by tectonics. The results of mountain front index and hypsometric integral reveal high relief and uplift. Overall deglaciation of 12.91% was observed in the basin. Analysis of the meteorological data for the last century (1901–2017) indicate that increase in minimum and maximum temperature coupled with increase in liquid precipitation are probably the main drivers of glacier depletion. We conclude that the drainage system of this basin is structurally controlled and overall landscape change is significantly influenced by the ongoing perturbations in the climate system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the rate of deformation of the Kashmir basin has been determined using the Sentinel-1A based Persistent Scatterer Interferometry Synthetic Aperture Radar (PSInSAR). The study reveals highest rate of uplift in the Pir-Panjal range (8–13 mm/y) whereas, in the Saribal range the rate of upliftment is 5–6 mm/y. The line of sight displacement in the Kashmir basin was recorded in the range of −20 to +30 mm/y over the period of 2015 to 2021. However, the temporal displacement variation in the Kashmir valley varies in different years during the observation period and was found maximum in the year 2021. The Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) clearly show dominant uplift in the valley and surrounding hill ranges. The PSInSAR results were further validated with the GPS based deformation rates, which indicates a maximum of 10 mm/yr of deformation in the study area. The high / lows of gravity and magnetic based surveys are well corroborated with the observed positive and negative anomalies of present PSInSAR velocity results. Further, the Global Positioning System (GPS) based crustal strain results are also collectively substantiating our PSInSAR based crustal behaviour of the Kashmir basin. • Sentinel-1a based crustal deformation of the Kashmir basin. • The Persistent Scatterer Interferometry results shows show dominant uplift in the valley and surrounding hill ranges. • The seismic based high (uplift) and lows (subsidence) of gravity and magnetic are well corroborated with PSInSAR results. • GPS derived strain analysis shows average compression of −7.22 × 10−8 nano strain/year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In September 2014, the Kashmir valley (north-west India) experienced a massive flood causing significant economic losses and fatalities. This disaster underlined the high vulnerability of the local population and raised questions regarding the resilience of Kashmiris to future floods. Although the magnitude of the 2014 flood has been considered unprecedented within the context of existing measurements, we argue that the short flow series may lead to spurious misinterpretation of the probability of such extreme events. Here we use a millennium-long record of past floods in Kashmir based on historical and tree-ring records to assess the probability of 2014-like flood events in the region. Our flood chronology (635 CE–nowadays) provides key insights into the recurrence of flood disasters and propels understanding of flood variability in this region over the last millennium, showing enhanced activity during the Little Ice Age. We find that high-impact floods have frequently disrupted the Kashmir valley in the past. Thus, the inclusion of historical records reveals large flood hazard levels in the region. The newly gained information also underlines the critical need to take immediate action in the region, so as to reduce the exposure of local populations and to increase their resilience, despite existing constraints in watershed management related to the Indus Water Treaty. Unlabelled Image • Kashmir has recently suffered extreme flood disasters • Historical and tree-ring flood records show the occurrence of extreme floods events over last millennium • The gained records contribute to a better flood-hazard assessment. • This information is relevant for flood mitigation under the Indus Water Treaty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]