A tragic fire broke out late Saturday night at a popular nightclub in Arpora village, North Goa, resulting in the deaths of at least 23 people, most of whom were employees working at the venue. The nightclub, Birch by Romeo Lane, had become operational only last year and is located around 25 km from Panaji, the state capital.
According to Goa Police chief Alok Kumar, the blaze was triggered by a gas cylinder explosion inside the premises. Firefighters and rescue teams worked through the night to retrieve the bodies and secure the area. All the deceased were later sent to Goa Medical College, Bambolim for post-mortem.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who visited the spot after the flames were brought under control, stated that only three victims died from burn injuries, while the remaining 20 succumbed to suffocation caused by heavy smoke trapped inside the building. Among the deceased were three women. Initial information suggested that three to four tourists may also be among the victims, though most were confirmed to be staff members.
Preliminary findings indicate that the nightclub may not have followed mandatory fire safety regulations. The Chief Minister assured strict action against the club management as well as government officials responsible for allowing it to function without proper clearances.
“This heartbreaking incident has occurred during the peak tourist season. Those responsible for ignoring safety norms will be held accountable,” Sawant said.
Local MLA Michael Lobo confirmed that the Calangute panchayat will issue notices to all nightclubs, asking them to submit valid fire safety certificates. Establishments failing to comply are likely to face cancellation of licences. A detailed inquiry and comprehensive fire safety audit of clubs across the region has also been ordered.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident and spoke with the Goa Chief Minister to assess the situation. He offered condolences to the families of the deceased and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured, assuring full support from the government to those affected.
