Sustainable Logistics Network Optimization From Dry Ports to Seaport: A Case Study From Pakistan

Abstract

Several considerations are explored in each mode of transportation for the safe, quick, and environmentally friendly movement of goods. To obtain the advantages in all transportation modes, it is critical to develop appropriate models and algorithms. By expanding our understanding of the planning of bi-objective optimization problems, this study contributes to the field of real-time green logistics analysis. The paper provides case studies based on road and road-rail transportation from dry ports to a seaport in Pakistan. Analysis of the cases shapes the economic and environmental planning of transport. Because there is little research on this topic in Pakistan, the innovative aspect is to reduce the cost and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of road and intermodal freight transportation between dry ports and seaport. A mixed-integer linear programming model is used for the formulation of the bi-objective problem. Pareto front solutions are provided to trade-off the cost and GHG emissions in delivering goods from dry ports to seaport in Pakistan. The study uses real-life data from one of the largest logistics service providers in Pakistan. Results show that intermodal transportation is 82.6% more economical and 78% greener compared with road freight transportation. Further, this study could be extended by including other factors such as noise, air pollution, and traffic accidents.

Sustainable Technology Strategies for Transportation and Logistics Challenges: An Implementation Feasibility Study

“…In the context of developing economies, several factors, such as a lack of investment and proficient policies, corruption, lack of technology adoption, inadequate resources and infrastructure, etc. [7,[10][11][12], affect operations in the transportation industry. In addition, political reasons, natural disasters and market fluctuations [4] also have a profound impact on this sector.…”

“…Therefore, the parallel management of a diverse workforce is a challenge in the transportation industry. Although human resources and operations in the transportation industry have improved in the last few years, the effective use of technology is lacking, as well as well-planned human resource processes and operation execution [12]. The COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic scenarios brought additional challenges due to the shutdown of businesses.…”

How to Manage Supply Chains Successfully in Transport Infrastructure Projects

“…The integration of information modeling and supply chain management in transportation infrastructure has been exemplified by key entities such as the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and Port Qasim Authority (PQA), as well as projects like the Karachi-Lahore Motorway (M-9) and the Allama Iqbal International Airport [29]. These initiatives aimed to optimize operations and enhance environmental sustainability.…”

“…For instance, the Pakistani authorities are urged to implement green packaging, transportation, and supply chain design to promote green economic growth [30]. Additionally, research has analyzed the impact of different transport infrastructure types on industrial output in Pakistan, contributing to the understanding of the country's transportation dynamics [29].…”