Memon, Abdul Wasay2023-08-102023-08-102023-08-08http://hdl.handle.net/10222/82767This thesis focuses on emergency evacuation planning for Persons Needing Mobility Assistance (PMA). It presents a comprehensive approach that combines multi-criteria decision analysis and microsimulation-based evacuation modeling. The importance of this research lies in its proactive approach to evacuation planning for vulnerable populations like PMA during natural disasters. By considering specific needs and optimizing evacuation routes, policymakers can better respond to emergency situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals with mobility assistance requirements. This study's results contribute valuable insights to emergency management and preparedness, enabling more effective strategies to be implemented for PMA during critical evacuation scenarios.This thesis presents a comprehensive approach to emergency evacuation planning for persons needing mobility assistance (PMA). The study combines multi-criteria decision analysis and microsimulation-based evacuation modeling. Using the entropy weight method, cloud model optimization, and TOPSIS method, six alternative evacuation routes within the Halifax peninsula are evaluated, with Route 2 identified as the optimal choice for PMA evacuation. A microsimulation model for traffic evacuation is developed, considering different network conditions and evaluating Average Evacuation Time (AET) for emergency vehicles (EMVs). The results highlight efficient routes for both “Out of Danger Zone” (ODZ) and “To the Shelter Location” (TSL) scenarios, considering traffic volume variations and dedicated lanes. This research contributes to proactive evacuation planning, enhancing policymakers' ability to address PMA needs during natural disasters.enPersons Needing Mobility Assistance (PMA)Emergency Evacuation PlanningRoute SelectionEntropy Weight MethodTOPSIS MethodEvacuation ModellingDesignated Evacuation Routes