Climate Change and Social Vulnerability: A Sociological Study of Affected Community in District Chiniot

Abstract

Among various global challenges, the climate changes have emerged as the greatest challenges across the globe with its impacts disproportionately affecting socially and economically vulnerable population. The present study examines the social vulnerability of communities in Chiniot with a focus on the intersections of poverty, livelihood, gender and access to resources. By employing quantitative design, the data were gathered from 400 participants across rural union councils of District Chiniot District. The multistage sampling method was used for the selection of sample. Results of the study highlighted that climate challenges i.e. floods, heatwaves and reduced agricultural productivity worsen the existing inequality and heighten community vulnerability. Moreover, this research study found that lack of adaptive capacity, weak institutional support and limited awareness contribute to vulnerability. The findings of the study emphasize the need for community-based adaptation programs, gender-sensitive climate policies and strengthened local governance mechanisms to enhance resilience.