AHP-BASED WEIGHTING APPROACH FOR RISK ASSESSMENT AND PRIORITIZATION IN PAKISTAN’S COAL SUPPLY CHAIN

Abstract

This study investigates the risks and mitigation strategies associated with Pakistan's coal supply chain, focusing on enhancing its resilience and sustainability. The research uses a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques, such as conducting semi-structured interviews and a structured survey questionnaire, involving 120 stakeholders. Data was analysed quantitatively using SPSS. Ranking and prioritizing of identified risks were done using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) based weighting approach. High priority weighting shows that the quality factors (0.134-0.154) and the time factors (0.104-0.135) are more important. The most important individual risk factors are total moisture (0.154) and lead time (0.135). Furthermore, the study shows that the weak infrastructure, geopolitical instability, regulatory issues, and environmental issues like pollution and carbon emissions are the main concerns in the coal supply chain in Pakistan. Technology improvements, including energy-efficient machines and mining technology, were seen as important contributors to the improvements in the supply chain. The findings of the study corroborate previous studies and bring to the fore issues that are specific to Pakistan including the effect of policy fluctuations and geopolitical tensions in the region. The study highlights the importance of strategic investments in infrastructure, sustainable practices, technological innovation, and collaboration among stakeholders to improve the resilience of the coal supply chain and support the nation's energy security and economic development.