Selecting the Best Logistics Path in Times of a Natural Disaster: A Game Theoretic Perspective in Relation to to Sri Lankan Context

In the light of increasing attention to humanitarian operations, logistics have taken an unprecedented turn in the humanitarian sector. Humanitarian Logistics (HL) has now become one of the significant factors in assisting any disaster. This paper presents a conceptual model to determine an evaluation method to find out the best logistic service provider (LSP) amongst the Local/Internal players in distributing aid. A game theory-based application model has been designed to select the best player. Variables which have an effect on performance were considered when developing the initial utility values. Model provides a pre-entry evaluation system, will assist various donors in effective management of delivery and distribution of humanitarian aid to recipients. The model was tested as a case study in a recent torrential rains and flash flood occurred in Sri Lanka. It is recommended to further test and improve this conceptual model to gain more effective results.