The Salt Range was primarily formed about 800 million years ago through a two-stage geological process involving the evaporation of a shallow sea and the subsequent under thrusting of the Indian Plate.
The Geological Origin of the Salt Range
The formation of the majestic Salt Range, which stretches for approximately 300 kilometres, is a remarkable testament to ancient geological forces. Its origins trace back an astonishing 800 million years, a period far preceding many of Earth's more commonly known mountain-building events. This unique geological feature is a direct result of specific environmental conditions followed by immense tectonic pressures that shaped the landscape.
Key Stages of Formation
The creation of the Salt Range can be broken down into two principal geological events:
- Evaporation of a Shallow Sea: The initial, crucial step in the formation of the Salt Range involved the extensive evaporation of a shallow sea. Over vast spans of time, as this ancient body of water receded and evaporated, it left behind immense quantities of dissolved minerals, primarily salt, which crystallized and accumulated. These deposits formed incredibly thick layers of evaporite minerals, laying the groundwork for the future mountain range.
- Under Thrusting of the Indian Plate: Following the deposition of these extensive salt layers, a significant tectonic event unfolded: the under thrusting of the Indian Plate. This massive geological movement involved the Indian Plate pushing beneath other crustal blocks. The immense pressure, compression, and displacement generated by this under thrusting activity subsequently uplifted, folded, and faulted the ancient salt deposits. This process effectively squeezed and elevated the previously formed salt beds, transforming them into the prominent mountainous structure we recognize today as the Salt Range.
The combination of ancient marine evaporation and powerful plate tectonics provides a clear understanding of how the Salt Range, with its unique geology and rich mineral resources, came into existence.
