At least 23 people were killed in a devastating fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, late Saturday night. Police said the incident was triggered by a cylinder blast, though eyewitnesses claimed the fire first erupted on the first-floor dance floor where around 100 people were present.
Most Victims Were Kitchen Staff
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who rushed to the site, confirmed that most of the deceased were kitchen workers, including three women.
“Three to four tourists” were also among the dead, he said, adding that three victims died of burn injuries while the rest suffocated while trying to escape.
Eyewitness Account: Fire Started on Dance Floor
Eyewitnesses reported panic moments after flames erupted on the dance floor.
Some people ran downstairs toward the kitchen, where they became trapped along with staff members.
“We rushed out only to see the entire structure up in flames,” said Fatima Shaikh, a tourist from Hyderabad.
President Murmu, PM Modi Express Grief
President Droupadi Murmu said she was “deeply pained” by the loss of lives and offered condolences to bereaved families.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to CM Sawant and announced:
₹2 lakh ex-gratia from PMNRF to next of kin of the deceased
₹50,000 for the injured
He said the incident was “deeply saddening” and assured all possible assistance.
Club Violated Fire Safety Norms, Says CM
After inspecting the site, CM Sawant said preliminary information indicates that the nightclub did not follow mandatory fire safety norms.
An official inquiry has been ordered.
Goa MLA Calls for Safety Audit
BJP MLA Michael Lobo called for an immediate safety audit of all clubs in Goa, citing that most victims died of suffocation as they ran toward the basement.
“Goa is seen as a safe tourist destination. Such incidents must never happen again,” he said.
Summary
23 dead, including 3 women, mostly kitchen staff
Cause: Suspected cylinder blast; eyewitnesses claim fire began on dance floor
PM announces compensation; President expresses grief
Club allegedly violated fire safety norms
Inquiry ordered; MLA calls for safety audit of all clubs
