A Follow-Up Sharing-Scheduling Method for Resource Distribution in Mountain Earthquake Response

Abstract

When earthquakes occur in the mountains, numerous rescuing resources need to be distributed among affected areas. The distribution mission is a long-term response process, which requires consideration of factors such as weather conditions, aftershock damage, and complex mountainous topography. These factors lead to uncertainties, such as transportation time and supply and demand information as well as several disaster sites. This study aims to develop a new scheduling method based on uncertainties of mountain earthquakes and several disaster sites in a long-term response process. The proposed methodology focuses on two problems, namely, (1) how to coordinate supplies between different phases of the response process and (2) how to deal with uncertainties. A follow-up sharing mechanism is put forward to ensure that resources from previous phases are partly shared with the ensuing phases as needed. A scheduling methodology is then established with the uncertainties in demand and traffic conditions. Results from numerous studies show that a schedule with this mechanism is effective, and the resource distribution principle significantly affects the resource allocation plan.