Browsing by Author "Sandamith, WM"

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item: Conference-Full-text
Multiple disruptions on vegetable supply chain: a case of rural transport and logistics
(Sri Lanka Society of Transport and Logistics, 2022-08) Hansika, ST; Wickramarathne, IM; Sandamith, WM; De Silva, DAM; Perera, N; Thibbotuwawa, A
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.
item: Conference-Full-text
Transparency and authenticity of mango supply chain
(Sri Lanka Society of Transport and Logistics, 2023-08-26) Madumalka, HWK; Sandamith, WM; De Silva, DAM; Gunaruwan, TL
The mango industry faces challenges due to the perishability of fruits, seasonality, and high demand in processing and fresh fruit markets. To ensure product authenticity, tracing methods are crucial. This study examines the existing traceability system and authenticity while identifying logistics gaps in the mango supply chain. Research focused to develop a block chain-based method to enhance quality, safety authenticity and returns of mango value chain. Primary data collection comprised of environmental scanning, institutional analysis, and participatory approaches. 74 respondents mango value chain included into the sample. Qualitative tools and descriptive statistics were utilized to assess traceability. Results showed that export-oriented mango value chains, especially TJC mangoes, maintained safety, quality standards, and traceability. However, fresh mangoes for local markets and processing lacked similar measures. Poor postharvest management and contamination issues, notably with ripening agents, significantly impacted the safety and quality of the fruits. Exporters demonstrated tracing capabilities up to the collection agency level using stickers with quality information. Common logistics issues included limited awareness among value chain actors, poor communication between nodes, and information asymmetry were key barriers. This study underscores the need to improve traceability, safety, and quality standards in the mango supply chain. Implementing block chain technology could address these challenges and enhance efficiency, transparency, and trust throughout the industry, benefiting all stakeholders.