Mesozoic–Cenozoic geological evolution of the Himalayan-Tibetan orogen and working tectonic hypotheses

The Himalayan-Tibetan orogen, formed by the Cenozoic India-Asia collision, provides critical insights into continental suturing processes. This study reveals that its geological framework originated from multiple ocean closures and intercontinental suturing events spanning Triassic to Cenozoic eras. Key findings include phases of southward trench retreat beneath Asian terranes, creating ophiolites and backarc basins during Neo-Tethys subduction (174–70 Ma), followed by Cordilleran-style deformation. The research suggests that the India-Asia collision initiated at ∼60 Ma, though plate reconstructions indicate a spatial mismatch, proposing an alternative scenario where the Gangdese arc rifted southward and collided with India, with backarc basin closure occurring later (∼45 Ma). Post-collision magmatism and tectonic activity, including potassic-adakitic magmatism and exhumation, are interpreted within the context of Indian lithosphere subduction dynamics. The study integrates seismic data, paleomagnetic reconstructions, and stratigraphic evidence to propose a refined tectonic model for the region's evolution.

Kapp, P., & DeCelles, P. G. (2019). Mesozoic–Cenozoic geological evolution of the Himalayan-Tibetan orogen and working tectonic hypotheses. American Journal of Science, 319(3), 159–254. https://doi.org/10.2475/03.2019.01