GSA Today

Figure 7.

The terminus of the Indus River and its extensive delta system as seen from the west looking eastward. The Indus Delta is a highly dynamic system that is affected by upstream and downstream influences and by seismicity associated with the nearby Makran subduction zone, as well as by tsunamis. The number of distributary channels has reduced from 17 in 1861 to just one today, largely due to upstream diversions and damming. Instead of a fluvially dominated delta, it is now mostly a tidally controlled system, where the mangrove ecosystem has been severely disrupted. Inset: top: 2013 image showing contrast between the still partially active mangrove system (in green) and the now industrialized area of Korangi to its north; bottom: 2016 image of the delta showing widespread desiccation. Credit: NASA archives.