Chattogram city, known as the commercial capital of Bangladesh, faces extensive waterlogging due to rapid and unplanned urbanization. Chaktai, a key commercial and financial hub, is highly vulnerable to waterlogging. This study uses a combined method of geospatial analysis and Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) approaches to evaluate the spatial and socio-environmental vulnerability to waterlogging in the Chaktai Commercial Area. Field surveys, PRA, geospatial analysis, and stakeholder interviews provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to drainage issues. Data on drainage conditions, flood frequency, and inundation depth were collected by a questionnaire survey with 385 randomly selected respondents. Furthermore, ten community members participated in a snowball sampling-based Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) to investigate everyday impacts and local knowledge. High-risk areas were identified by applying Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to key spatial factors, including elevation, slope, drainage density, and proximity to water bodies. The causes, effects, and seasonal trends of waterlogging was gathered using PRA methods like as cause-effect diagrams, pairwise ranking, seasonal and historical diagrams, Venn diagram and daily activity schedules. The findings indicate that 1.34 square kilometers of the study area, which includes portions of Khula Para, Barua Para, and Khwaja Road are extremely susceptible to waterlogging. The primary causes were determined to be unplanned development, inadequate waste management, clogged sewers, and a lack of agency collaboration. The study also emphasizes gender-related difficulties, health problems, and seasonal consequences. For better planning, it emphasizes how crucial it is to combine community involvement with scientific analysis. This strategy can promote long-term solutions, enhance drainage, and reduce the danger of flooding in other urban areas that are vulnerable to floods.