Goa’s vibrant nightlife suffered a tragic blow after a major fire broke out at a popular nightclub in Arpora. The blaze claimed several lives and left the state in deep shock. Authorities are investigating the cause as rescue teams continue their work. Scroll down for the full report.
Major Fire Broke Out In Goa Nightclub
A devastating fire at a nightclub in Arpora, Birch by Romeo Lane, North Goa, killed 25 people around midnight on Saturday, November 6. According to the officials, the blaze started in the club’s kitchen area, and police believe a gas cylinder explosion might have triggered it. As per the BBC, the fire spread quickly, leaving staff and some tourists trapped inside. Most of the bodies were found near the kitchen, suggesting many victims worked at the venue. Six more people are admitted to the hospital.
In talks with BBC, Goa’s Director General of Police, Alok Kumar, said the flames were concentrated on the ground floor. Fire crews reached the spot and brought the situation under control, but the club suffered extensive damage. Rescue teams continued working through the early hours of Sunday, combing through charred furniture and wreckage.
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What Witnesses Reported
According to the BBC, witnesses described scenes of panic in the normally lively nightlife area. A man said he heard screams outside the club and realised a massive, horrific fire had broken out, leaving people helpless as the blaze spread. A chef at a nearby venue said he feared for friends who worked at the club and added that many employees in Goa’s nightlife industry come from other Indian states and Nepal.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that three victims died from burn injuries, while the others suffocated. He also said that three to four tourists were among the dead, though officials have not yet shared their identities or nationalities. The bodies have been moved to Goa Medical College in Panaji for identification.
Authorities have sealed the nightclub and increased security around the area. A formal inquiry is now underway. The chief minister said anyone found responsible will face strict legal action, and negligence will not be ignored. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah expressed their condolences to the families of the victims. According to Reuters, the PM announced that each family of the deceased will receive ₹2,00,000, and each injured person will get ₹50,000 as compensation.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@Kunal_Mechrules & Instagram/ @birchGoa