What can the NW Syntaxis and western lateral margin tell us about IND-EUR convergence history?

Abstract The tectonic history of IND-EUR convergence is re-examined in the context of the deformation preserved within the NW syntaxis and adjoining western lateral margin. A revised global paleoreconstruction is presented, beginning ~ 150 Ma, with a focus on the IND plate. This data is compared to IND plate convergence rates and global plate patterns. Seismic tomographic images are used track slab behavior beneath the NW Syntaxis and western lateral margin. Marginal India comprises much of the western lateral margin and extends from the Makran subduction zone through the NW Syntaxis. Based on this data and analyses, I propose the following. (1) Three subduction zones operated in the NeoTethys from ~ 87 to 50 Ma. (2) Marginal India is composed of four terranes and its accretion history records critical details of IND-EUR convergence. (3) Marginal India is bent in plan-view due to simultaneous northward subduction beneath the Hindu Kush along the Herat fault and westward subduction beneath the Helmand block of Afghanistan along the Chaman fault. This multidirectional subduction of Marginal India has led to slab tearing along the outer corner of the slab, potentially influencing mantle flow and earthquake patterns.