Designing of Relief Network for Disaster Response Operation

Abstract

This chapter deals with the design of relief network to improve efficiency and effectiveness of relief operation. About 80 % of disaster response operation involves logistics activities. The problem is modeled as a location-allocation problem in distributing relief supplies to disaster victims. The location of local distribution centers (LDCs) and the amount of relief supplies that will be delivered through the relief network are determined by minimizing logistics cost. Equity among demand points are considered by giving a penalty cost for unfair distribution. A numerical example is conducted to illustrate how the model operates. The results show the effect of unfairness cost on performance of relief system, particularly on logistics cost and demand satisfied.