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Abstract Municipal solid waste (MSW) management in Kashmir Valley India faces major challenges due to urbanization, tourism, and industrial growth, threatening environmental and public health. Thus, understanding MSW patterns and disposal challenges is essential for effective planning and policy interventions. This study uses a mixed-method approach, household surveys (n = 400), key informant interviews (n = 25), PCA statistical analysis, and GIS-based mapping to evaluate MSW in Ganderbal town of the Valley. Findings indicate a 30% increase in the waste generation over the past five years, with food emerging as dominant i.e. 60% of total waste, followed by plastics (18.7%) and electronic waste. Although 58% of households practice source segregation, recycling levels remain low and composting is largely absent. Waste collection services cover most wards but operate inconsistently, contributing to moderate public satisfaction and low awareness levels. Ward-level assessment using a Waste Hazard Index and GIS-based spatial analysis reveals disparities, with a few wards performing poorly while others show moderate outcomes, indicating partial effectiveness of current waste management measures. The statistical results highlight the need to strengthen public participation, infrastructure, service delivery, institutional performance, and awareness programs. Targeted improvements in monitoring, composting initiatives, and community engagement are recommended to enhance the sustainability of MSW management in Ganderbal town and other growing urban centers of India.