A model for relief supply chain optimisation in a multi-product distribution environment

The study investigates a multi-product inventory relief chain where an intermediate distribution centre gets supplies from a collecting centre and caters to the demands of relief centres to emphasise the importance of the relief supply chain in disasters. The relief centres are formed to distribute relief products to affected people in the affected areas. The inventory relief chain system is suggested to provide relief products to affected people at the lowest possible cost. The model optimises the selection of intermediate distribution and relief centres with minimal distribution costs. However, in disaster conditions, every relief centre must receive its requirements. A numerical experiment has been carried out to validate the relevance of the model. A sensitivity analysis of the optimal solution for different parameters is performed to determine how resistant the parameters are to the objective function. The approach supports relief communities in fine-tuning emergency response procedures.