Prioritization Model for the Location of Temporary Points of Distribution for Disaster Response

Abstract

Background: Disasters generate abrupt surges in humanitarian demand, requiring response strategies that balance operational performance with vulnerability considerations. This study examines how temporary Points of Distribution (PODs) can be planned and activated to support timely and equitable resource distribution after a high-magnitude earthquake. Methods: A two-stage framework is proposed. First, a modular p-median model identifies POD locations and allocates modular capacity to minimize population-weighted distance under capacity constraints; travel-distance percentiles guide the selection of p. Second, a SMART-based multi-criteria model ranks facilities using operational metrics and vulnerability indicators, including seismic and economic conditions and the presence of at-risk groups. Results: Evaluation of p values from 3 to 30 shows substantial reductions in travel distances as PODs increase, with an elbow at p=12, where 50% of the residents are within 500 m, 75% within 675 m, and 95% within 1200 m. The SMART analysis forms three priority clusters: facilities 24 and 9 as highest priority; 23, 4, 12, and 22 as medium priority; and the remaining sites as lower priority. Sensitivity analysis shows that rankings are responsive to vulnerability weights, although clusters remain stable. Conclusions: The framework integrates optimization and multi-criteria decision analysis without increasing model complexity, enabling meaningful decision-maker involvement throughout the modeling process.