Stable hydrogen and oxygen isotope investigation of the saline and hyperalkaline springs in parts of the Inner Fold Belt and Ophiolite Complex of Manipur and Nagaland, India

Several saline and hyperalkaline springs occur in Manipur and Nagaland. In most parts of Manipur, the springs occur mainly in the Disang country rocks, with a few in the ophiolite belt. In northern Manipur and Nagaland, they are reported from rocks of the Disang and Barail groups. The springs have TDS contents varying significantly from 532 to 32,700 mg/l. An attempt is made for the first time to determine the source of the spring waters utilizing stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen. The structural and lithological controls on the springs are also taken into account. The stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen indicate the meteoric and metamorphic origin of the waters.