An integrated resource allocation and distribution model for pre-disaster planning

Abstract

In this paper, a three-echelon network model is proposed for integrated emergency preparedness and response planning for the distribution of emergency supplies. The model minimizes the social cost to identify a set of potential supply points (SPs) at the highest echelon, where supply items are consolidated and sent to the prepositioning facilities. The sum of logistics and deprivation costs incurred by the population due to the lack of access to goods or services, is considered as the social cost in this model. The deprivation cost is assumed to increase exponentially with the deprivation time. The model also considers pre-disaster and post-disaster purchasing decisions at the SPs, and allows direct shipments from SPs and prepositioned facilities to the demand points. Numerical analysis shows that multiple supply sources can ensure efficient distribution of the supplies and reduce the deprivation costs. The results also indicate that partial prepositioning and post-disaster purchasing can reduce the shortage in emergency supplies.