Yawar AliAli RazaAtif Ali2025-11-172025-11-172023https://escholar.umt.edu.pk/handle/123456789/10266The study aims to evaluate the current solid waste management system in Gilgit City and propose strategies for improvement. It focuses on enhancing waste collection, disposal, and treatment practices, considering operational effectiveness, environmental impacts, and institutional challenges. The ultimate goal is to enhance public health, reduce pollution levels, and improve living conditions for the citizens of Gilgit City. Additionally, a more sustainable waste management system will support urban growth and planning. The study identifies operational inefficiencies, inadequate recycling and waste transportation infrastructure, and poor waste disposal practices that hinder the current system's effectiveness. The environmental effects of negligent waste management, such as air, water, and soil pollution, are also examined. Institutional challenges, including financial constraints, lack of technical expertise, and ineffective public involvement, are investigated. The study sets specific objectives to evaluate existing waste management practices, assess the impacts of waste disposal sites, study institutional challenges, and propose recommendations for improvement. It emphasizes the significance of the research in understanding current practices, identifying risks, and formulating effective solutions. The research design adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with key stakeholders and quantitative data collection on waste management metrics. Proximity analysis and mapping techniques are utilized to identify high-risk areas surrounding the landfill site. The study proposes recommendations such as daily waste collection, efficient recycling, designated dumping sites, composting, and avoiding open waste burning. Challenges faced by the responsible authority, including sanitation issues and resource constraints, are also highlighted. The study concludes that improving managerial and planning skills, engaging the community, enhancing data analysis, and adopting eco-friendly waste disposal methods are essential for better solid waste management in Gilgit City. Implementing comprehensive solutions will lead to a cleaner and healthier environment and improve the quality of life for residents.enThesis