At least 25 people have died and many are injured in a massive fire that broke out in a nightclub/resto-bar named Birch by Romeo Lane in Arpora area of Goa. The incident occurred after midnight and is being described as one of Goa’s biggest accidents in recent years.
Where and when did the incident occur?
The fire broke out around 12 o’clock on Saturday night at Club Birch by Romeo Lane located in Arpora area of North Goa.
This place is a famous nightclub/resto-bar located near Baga Beach, where DJ nights and parties were going on at that time.
How many people are killed and injured?
According to the latest updates from various agencies and the government, at least 25 people have been confirmed dead; About 14 staff and 4 tourists are said to be included in these.
There are reports of between 6 and 50 people injured; CM Pramod Sawant has said that the condition of 6 injured is still stable and they are being given better treatment.
Most of the deaths were due to suffocation due to smoke, while some people lost their lives due to direct burning.
How did the fire start? (initial cause)
Initial investigation and FIR have revealed that the fire broke out due to the fire show/fireworks and cylinder blast going on in the club.
The club’s basement and dance floor were overcrowded, exits were narrow, and the use of flammable materials (such as palm leaves) in decoration allowed the fire and smoke to spread rapidly.
Rescue, government action and investigation
The fire brigade and police received the call after midnight and several fire tenders remained at the spot throughout the night; Rescue and cooling operations continued till morning.
Goa CM Pramod Sawant visited the spot, described the incident as “very unfortunate” and one of the gravest incidents in the history of Goa and ordered a magisterial inquiry.
By registering an FIR, the Chief General Manager, Manager, Event Organizer and some staff of the club have been arrested/booked, while the local Sarpanch has also been detained for questioning.
The government has said that fire safety audit will be conducted on all such clubs and resto-bars and strict action will be taken against anyone who commits illegal construction or violates the rules.
Leader feedback and compensation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Draupadi Murmu have expressed deep grief over the incident and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.
CM Pramod Sawant posted on X and said that the state government is providing all possible help to all the affected people; The announcement of compensation is under discussion (some reports indicate financial assistance at the state level, but the final amount is not yet clearly locked).
Current situation (as of 7th December evening)
The fire has been completely extinguished, the spot has been sealed and the forensic team and fire department are conducting the inspection. The process of identifying the deceased is underway; The local administration is contacting the victims’ families and tour operators.
The government has clearly indicated that criminal action will be taken against those responsible for ignoring safety standards and other similar sites will also be reviewed.
