Joint network and route optimization in road evacuation

In this paper a Network and Route Optimization Problem (NROP) in evacuation conditions is proposed. The variables involved in the problem are discrete (link topology, routes for rescue vehicles) and continuous (link capacity). The discrete variables are related to the link direction, lane numbers, lane use and sequence of users reached by rescue vehicles. The continuous variables, assuming that the link capacity is a function of the characteristics of the final node in the link, are related to the intersection control setting. The NROP is hence formulated as a mixed (discrete/continuous problem) in a congested network considering the ordinary demand and the evacuation demand. The network topology is optimized considering the users who evacuate on their own and the rescue vehicles that move to rescue some users. A heuristic procedure is used to find the best network configuration. © 2012 WIT Press.