On Thursday, February 13, a tragic fire erupted in an elevator at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, claiming the lives of two individuals and injuring three others. The incident, reported by local newspaper Kech24, unfolded as preparations were underway for the fourth Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety, set to take place from February 18 to 20.
Initial findings from the scene have exposed serious lapses in safety protocols at the venue. Rescue teams faced significant hurdles in reaching the victims and extinguishing the blaze, hindered by the absence of essential emergency equipment, such as fire extinguishers. The two deceased were employees of companies engaged in the event's preparatory activities.
Benacer Boulaajoul, director of the National Road Safety Agency, was present at the site and expressed profound sorrow over the incident. He lamented the inadequate safety measures at the Palais des Congrès, a venue known for hosting major national and international events.
Authorities have launched an investigation to uncover the precise cause of the fire and to determine any potential liabilities.