As smoke spread quickly, thousands rushed towards exit gates while authorities temporarily shut the venue for safety inspections.
Injuries linked to smoke inhalation, panicThe Brazilian Health Ministry provided an official update on the injuries and the situation, stating, “…according to updated data as of 6 pm this Thursday (Nov 20), 21 people have received medical care as a result of the fire that affected the Blue Zone of the event.”
The ministry added that 19 cases were linked to smoke inhalation, while two were related to anxiety episodes. However, no burn injured were reported.
“Patients were promptly assisted and 12 have already been discharged. The remaining individuals are receiving appropriate care in health facilities in Belem and in a designated referral unit for such cases,” the statement by ministry read, as per PTI.
High-profile dignitaries evacuated
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was also present in the area and was evacuated by the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS).
India’s Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and members of the Indian delegation also exited safely, a ministry spokesperson told PTI.
According to a mail sent to participants by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the structure and venue of the event was declared safe after inspection and handed back by the Brazilian authorities.
“Brazilian authorities have restored all working conditions on the conference premises, secured the post-fire operating permit from the Fire Department and formally returned the area to the UNFCCC,” the message was quoted as saying by PTI.
The firefighters reportedly brought the flames under control within approximately six minutes. The fire, which spread to the decorative textiles lining the structure, did not affect the nearby Green Zone, where activities are scheduled. The UNCOP20 Summit is scheduled to conclude on Friday, November 21.
