Goa Nightclub Fire: At least 25 people lost their lives and more than 50 others were injured after a massive fire broke out at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, Goa, shortly after midnight on Sunday.
According to early police reports, the blaze was reported around 12:04 am, moments after witnesses heard a loud blast suspected to be caused by a gas cylinder explosion inside the restaurant’s kitchen area.
Fire Safety Violations Found
Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, who visited the site early Sunday morning, confirmed that the nightclub had violated fire safety norms, which worsened the scale of the tragedy. Many victims reportedly died due to suffocation, while at least three were severely burnt.
The Chief Minister added that the majority of the deceased were kitchen staff, while around six were tourists dining or attending the club at the time of the incident.
PM Announces Ex-Gratia for Victims
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) issued a statement expressing deep grief over the tragedy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved an ex-gratia of
- ₹2 lakh for the families of each deceased from the PM National Relief Fund (PMNRF)
- ₹50,000 for those injured in the fire.
PM Modi wrote, “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 also confirmed speaking with CM Sawant, stating that the state government is providing all possible assistance to those affected.
Rescue Operations Ongoing
Firefighters, police teams, and local volunteers worked through the night to control the blaze and rescue trapped individuals. Several injured persons were rushed to nearby hospitals, where many are reported to be in critical condition.
Authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the cylinder blast, structural safety lapses, and the restaurant’s compliance with fire regulations.