COP31 dawn queues expose logistics failures at Antalya climate summit

The third day of COP31 in Antalya, Turkey, began before dawn with long queues at the event's entrance, as participants were required to arrive between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m. local time to access the restricted Blue Zone for the Leaders' Summit on Wednesday and Thursday. Many X-ray machines for scanning belongings were inoperable due to staff shortages, despite the earlier entry time. The UN climate agency had warned of transport disruptions and significant bus reductions between 8:30 a.m. and 12 p.m., affecting press and civil society members, while government officials use blocked routes. The logistical chaos follows Tuesday's issues, including hours-long traffic jams and over three-hour waits for credentials. Irregular COP31 shuttle schedules and costly Uber rides of at least 1,000 Turkish lira compounded problems. Most food services were closed, leaving delegates with limited coffee options.