A Multi-Objective Multi-Period Model for Humanitarian Relief Logistics with Split Delivery and Multiple Uses of Vehicles

Abstract

Disaster relief logistics is a significant element in the management of disaster relief operations. In this paper, the operational decisions of relief logistics are considered in the distribution of resources to the affected areas to include scheduling, routing, and allocation decisions. The proposed mathematical model simultaneously captures many aspects relevant to real life to face the challenging situation of disasters. Characteristics such as multiple uses of vehicles and split delivery allow for better use of vehicles as one of the primary resources of disaster response. A multi-period multi-criteria mixed-integer programming model is introduced to evaluate and address these features. The model utilizes a rolling horizon method that provides possibilities to adjust plans as more information becomes available. Three objectives of efficiency, effectiveness, and equity are jointly considered. The augmented epsilon constraint method is applied to solve the model, and a case study is presented to illustrate the potential applicability of our model. Computational results show that the model is capable of generating efficient solutions.

Keywords

Disaster management / relief logistics / vehicle routing problem / multi-trip / rolling horizon

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