Multiple disruptions on vegetable supply chain: a case of rural transport and logistics

Abstract

Vegetable supply chains are vital for food, nutrition, and economic wellbeing of the rural communities of the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Rural transport and road networks are playing a significant role in connecting farmers to distinct markets. The performance of highly perishable agricultural produce depends on the nature and structure of the rural transport system. The study aimed to explore the role of rural transport and logistics on the vegetable supply chain, find out the supply chain disruptions derived from rural transport and logistics systems, and propose mitigation measures to manage the supply chain disruptions. Participatory approaches were used to explore the status of the rural transport and logistics systems while focus group discussions with vegetable supply chain actors of Boralanda, Bogahakumbura, Wangiyakumbura, Kepettipola, Welimada, and Nuwara Eliya provided the primary data requirements. Road networks connecting urban centers and cities are well established but road networks of rural mountain areas are underdeveloped and non-motorized transport modes are common. Postharvest losses are very high and farmers receive marginal returns. Rural road infrastructure will facilitate outside traders to collect the fresh produce from mountain areas and operations are not economically feasible. Quality of road network and available mode of transport influences vehicle operating costs, transit times, and other factors affecting the turn-around of services and therefore their profitability.