At least 23 people died in a fire at a nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, triggered by a cylinder blast early Sunday, with most victims being staff members. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and announced Rs 2 lakh aid for families of the deceased. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant ordered a probe into the incident.
A cylinder blast in the kitchen of Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora village, North Goa, sparked a fire around 12:04 am on Saturday night, with smoke spreading to the basement. Police said most deaths resulted from suffocation, including three from burn injuries. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated that the 23 victims comprised 20 men and three women, including three or four tourists, while the rest were kitchen staff at the club.
After visiting the site, Sawant remarked, “Primary information indicates that the nightclub had not followed fire safety norms. I am ordering an inquiry into the incident.” He added that those responsible would face stringent action. Reports vary, with some sources citing 25 deaths, but most confirm 23.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, “The fire mishap in Arpora, Goa, is deeply saddening. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones.” He spoke with Sawant and announced Rs 2 lakh from the PMNRF for each deceased's kin and Rs 50,000 for the injured. President Droupadi Murmu and Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed condolences.
BJP MLA Michael Lobo said, “We will need to conduct a safety audit of all other clubs in Goa... Tourists have always considered Goa a very safe destination, but such incidents should not happen.” Rescue efforts continued overnight, and the fire was brought under control by morning. The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals.
