Investigating Active Tectonic Traces and Signs in the Basin of Bidvaz Esfarayen Dam Using Morphotectonic Indicators

Bidvaz dam drainage basin is located in the northwest of Esfarayen, which is geologically a part of Aladagh-Binaloud structural zone. For managing water resources and optimal use of these resources, a dam has been built on the main branch of this river. By pouring water into this dam, it became clear that water escape from this dam is more than the existing standards. The subsequent measures for reducing water leakage from this dam did nor result in positive consequences. Although the construction of this dam has had many benefits to the region, the increase in water leakage made the people living downstream worry. The high leakage of water from this dam evokes the assumption that the escape of water may be caused by tectonic activities. Because the lives of more than 70,000 people, including the people of Esfarayen city and several populated villages, are closely related to the water of this dam, it was necessary to study the tectonic activities under its basins. In this research, which was conducted using morphotectonic indicators and with the aim of identifying tectonic activities in this dam, it was determined that the region is tectonically in the ranks of active regions. Evidences such as the activity of faults, the study of earthquakes in the region, the results of morphotectonic indicators, and the study of profiles of the sub-basins of this river all indicate that this basin is tectonically active. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the operation, maintenance, and technical aspects of this dam.