The Kharga-Dakhla Depression

Abstract

The Kharga and Dakhla Depressions are one Depression, since they are encircled by steep escarpments from the east and north without imperceptible breaks and changes. This mega-depression extends for about 350 km east–west, but has a varying north–south extension of 200 km along its eastern boundary in Kharga and about 50 km in Dakhla. Surrounding plateaus rise 300 m a.s.l east of Kharga, 500 m on Abu Tartur, and 300–350 m asl on the northern plateau of Dakhla. Nearly, all the escarpment alignments are controlled by tectonics. Slope form along escarpments is also controlled by lithological differences and marked by several forms such as small wadi systems. The slopes of the escarpments are covered with various types of superficial deposits of different origins. Undermining of the upper segment of the slopes and the presence of several generations of collapsed limestone and chalk blocks indicate that slope retreat played a major role in the development of the Kharga-Dakhla Depression. However, the Depression Floor is an undulating plain since there are numerous landforms, both positive and negative that spread over its surface.