A multi-objective optimization approach for disruption management in an intermodal freight transport network

The growing demand for freight transportation is leading to pay more attention to the management of intermodal freight transport network (IFTN). The optimization of IFTN management will have many benefits in terms of sustainability, reducing costs and pollution. Although many studies on the optimization of IFTN operations exist, the management of disruptions deserves a particular attention since disruptions may lead to a significant drop of performance in the entire network. In particular, seaport terminals are prone to disruptions because of their key role in connecting the land side and the sea-side operations. The availability and reliability of the entire network is directly affected by their disruptions. In this paper, a multi-objective linear programming model is developed to minimize congestion in an IFTN, which is originated from the occurrence of a disruption in a seaport terminal. The model aims to minimize cost and emissions, simultaneously. Computational results of a realistic case study, inspired by an Italian IFTN, shows the effectiveness of the developed model to improve the performance of the entire network.