From Premium Times Nigeria · Fortune Eromonsele · · 2m
COP31: Delegates frustrated by long queues and crowded buses
COP31 delegates spend over five hours waiting for accreditation badges amid crowded buses and transportation chaos.
In brief
COP31 delegates spend over five hours waiting for accreditation badges amid crowded buses and transportation chaos. COP31 delegates face long queues and overcrowded buses on opening day, causing frustration and delays in accessing the climate conference venue. Originally reported by Premium Times Nigeria.
COP31 opening day delays
Several delegates, observers and other participants were seen waiting in long queues to collect their accreditation badges on Monday, with some reporting they spent more than five hours completing the process.
Transportation complaints
The situation was compounded by congestion around the venue and complaints about overcrowded shuttle buses conveying participants to the conference centre.
Personal experience
This reporter spent more than four hours waiting to collect an accreditation badge, while large crowds gathered around the entrance as participants struggled to navigate the queues.
Frustration among participants
At different points, some participants were seen expressing frustration and arguing as they waited for their badges, amid what appeared to be inadequate coordination of the accreditation process.
Jordan observer's experience
Leen Jones, an observer from Jordan, said she was exhausted after spending several hours waiting despite arriving early in the day.
Climate expert's concerns
Corazon Kisilu, a climate change expert with the Global Strategic Communications Council (GSCC), said the long queues and transportation arrangements had made the first day difficult for participants.
Shuttle bus discomfort
She described the shuttle bus experience as particularly uncomfortable, saying participants were packed inside the vehicles 'like sardines'.
Traffic congestion issues
Ms Kisilu also raised concerns about traffic congestion along the route to the conference venue, noting that the transportation arrangements had added to the difficulties.
Unusual experience
She said the experience was unusual compared with previous climate conferences she had attended and expressed hope that the organisers would improve the arrangements in the coming days.
COP31 timeline
COP31, which runs from 9 to 20 November, has brought together government representatives, climate negotiators, scientists, civil society organisations, businesses and other stakeholders to discuss responses to the global climate crisis.
Conference focus
The conference is expected to focus on translating climate commitments into practical action, with discussions covering climate finance, adaptation, energy transition, food security, agriculture, transport and resilient infrastructure.
Platform for developing nations
The conference also provides an important platform for countries, particularly developing nations, to push for greater financial and technical support to address the effects of climate change.
What matters most
COP31 delegates face long queues and overcrowded buses on opening day, causing frustration and delays in accessing the climate conference venue.
