Optimizing the Evacuation Planning for the Rohingya Refugee Crisis in Bangladesh Using a Multi-objective Optimization Technique

This study introduces a location-allocation-based evacuation plan for the Kutupalong-Balukhali expansion site, Cox's Bazar, housing Rohingya refugees. Two multi-objective optimization techniques, NSGA-II and WCA, integrated with GIS, are utilized to solve the optimization problem. The objective functions of minimizing travel time and capacity overburden are employed. The study collects data from UNOCHA services and identifies suitable cyclone shelters, schools, and prayer halls as safe evacuation locations. Both algorithms perform well in solving the evacuation problem, with WCA recommended for its solution quality and repeatability, and NSGA-II for providing quick solutions. Multiple optimal solutions are presented to enhance the planning of the evacuation proposal.