Simulation and Optimization-based Benefits Evaluation of the Xiaoqing River Navigation Restoration Project

The Xiaoqing River Navigation Restoration Project (XRNRP) is a crucial infrastructure endeavor in Shandong Province that will transform the cargo transport network in the hinterland of the Xiaoqing River. To assess the economic and environmental feasibility of the XRNRP, it is crucially important to quantitatively evaluate its impact on transportation costs and carbon emissions for carrying cargo from the Xiaoqing River hinterland area. This research proposes a simulation optimization (SO)-based approach using anyLogistix software to simulate the transportation of various cargos on a multimodal transport network and to identify optimal routes for cargo transportation. Finally, the comparative analysis the study shows that the XRNRP will effectively reduce the transportation distance of highways and decrease transportation costs and carbon emissions.