VOIWORLD/Arpora, Goa:
A massive fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Goa’s Arpora village claimed 25 lives, including four tourists and 14 staff members, in the early hours of Sunday. The blaze, which broke out around 12 am, tore through the popular party destination located about 25 kilometres from Panaji, officials confirmed.
The Goa club manager has been arrested, and an arrest warrant has been issued against the owner.
“People Died Due To Suffocation”: CM Pramod Sawant said.
Many people could not come out of the Birch by Romeo Lane after a fire broke out in the club around 12 am,
Rescue teams and firefighters rushed to the scene as thick smoke engulfed the premises, leaving little time for many trapped inside to escape. Authorities said the extent of the damage and the final toll became clear only after several hours of intensive rescue work.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who visited the site early this morning, told NDTV that the general manager of the nightclub has been arrested, and an arrest warrant has been issued against the owner. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered to determine the cause of the fire and whether safety norms were violated.
When asked if negligence was involved, Sawant said, “The probe will find out.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the tragedy, saying he had spoken to the Chief Minister regarding the situation. “The fire mishap in Arpora, Goa is deeply saddening. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest,” he posted on X.
Authorities continue to assess the structural damage to the nightclub as investigators examine whether electrical faults, overcrowding, or violations of fire safety protocols contributed to the disaster.
The incident has once again raised urgent questions about compliance and enforcement of safety regulations at Goa’s nightlife establishments, which draw thousands of tourists, especially during peak season.
