The study aims to evaluate the socio-economic consequences of natural disasters in Gilgit-Baltistan, a region characterized by its vulnerability to various natural hazards such as floods, earthquakes, rock falls, avalanches, and landslides. The study area encompasses five districts in Gilgit-Baltistan: Gilgit, Diamer, Ghizer, Hunza, and Nager, which have all been affected by natural disasters in the past.

A quantitative, field-based exploratory study design was employed, with a sample size of 384 respondents. Data was collected through structured interviews utilizing a pre-designed and standardized interview schedule.

The results of the study demonstrate that the region is frequently impacted by seasonal flood disasters, leading to significant social and economic problems for the local population. This is evidenced by widespread damage to livestock, valuable property, and communication infrastructure, as well as disrupted social and economic development.

The findings of this study make a valuable contribution to the extant academic literature on the multifaceted impacts of natural disasters, particularly in vulnerable communities. The results highlight the imperative for implementing evidence-based disaster risk reduction measures to mitigate the vulnerabilities and enhance the resilience of these communities in the face of such events.

Keywords: Natural Hazards, Socio-economic implications, Gilgit-Baltistan, Vulnerable communities