Belem (Brazil): United Nations office bearers and top leaders from across the world had a narrow escape after a massive fire broke out at the main venue of the ongoing UN COP30 Climate Summit in Belem, Brazil around 2 pm (local time) on Thursday.
At least 21 people were injured in the incident that saw thousands fleeing for safety from the ‘Blue Zone’, the heavily guarded hub that houses negotiation halls, country pavilions, media centres, and offices of world leaders.
UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres was present at the time and was swiftly escorted out by the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS). India’s environment minister Bhupender Yadav and his delegation were also inside the Blue Zone but exited without harm, it was confirmed.
The incident forced the suspension of all summit activities in the Blue Zone.
The plumes of dark smoke that rose from the temporary tent structure, were visible from several kilometres away, people said.
“Thirteen individuals were treated on site for smoke inhalation. Their condition is being monitored, and appropriate medical support has been provided,” the UN COP30 Presidency and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) said in a joint statement.
Fire and security personnel acted swiftly, bringing the blaze under control within six minutes, UN officials confirmed.
“People were evacuated safely. As a precaution, the Brazilian Government and the UNFCCC have jointly decided to temporarily close the Blue Zone while the fire department carries out a comprehensive safety assessment,” it was stated.
“There is a fire incident in Zone B. Please evacuate the venue immediately. Further updates will be communicated by the Secretariat,” an advisory issued by the UNFCCC secretariat stated.
The venue was no longer considered a UN-operated area after Brazilian authorities took over command.
“The host country fire chief has ordered the evacuation of the entire premises. The fire service will conduct full safety checks and is expected to provide an update at 4 pm,’ UNFCCC said in a bulletin.
“The fire has been contained with limited damage. Delegates are advised that the venue will not reopen before 8 pm. Further communication will follow shortly,’ it was updated.
The disruption has cast uncertainty over the summit’s tight schedule, with many critical talks still pending with the final day being Friday.
The UNDSS said its personnel had immediately responded with extinguishers as the fire spread to decorative textiles.
Heavy rain lashed the area minutes after the fire was brought under control, compounding difficulties for thousands of evacuated delegates waiting outside the venue.
COP30, being held in Belem from November 10 to 21, has brought together negotiators from more than 190 countries to chart a global roadmap for combating climate change.