A massive midnight fire at a popular Goa nightclub in Arpora killed at least 25 people, including tourists and staff. Authorities suspect a cylinder blast triggered the blaze. Prime leaders expressed condolences as rescue and investigation efforts continue.
North Goa witnessed one of its worst fire tragedies in recent years when a devastating blaze tore through a prominent nightlife venue in Arpora late Saturday night, killing at least 25 people and leaving several others injured. The incident has shocked the state’s tourism sector and raised serious concerns over fire safety compliance in high-footfall entertainment establishments.
The fire broke out around midnight at Birch by Romeo Lane, a well-known club situated in the vibrant Baga–Arpora belt, an area frequented by tourists from across India and abroad. The club is known for its late-night parties, live music, and proximity to Baga Beach, one of the most popular destinations for visitors to Goa.
According to preliminary information provided by North Goa police officials, the blaze is suspected to have been triggered by a sudden cylinder explosion inside the premises. The blast is believed to have been so powerful and abrupt that it left very little time for those inside the club—particularly staff working late hours—to escape to safety.
Among the 25 deceased, authorities confirmed the deaths of 4 tourists and 14 club staff members. The identities of 7 victims have yet to be determined, as rescue teams and forensic experts work through debris and charred sections of the structure. At least six injured individuals are currently undergoing treatment at nearby hospitals, where medical teams have been placed on high alert.
Fire tenders from multiple stations were rushed to the location and battled for hours to extinguish the flames. Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos as thick smoke engulfed the area, with flames shooting high into the night sky. Rescue personnel continued their search operations well into the early hours of Sunday, looking for survivors and working to bring the situation under control.
Senior officials, including the Director General of Police, North Goa district administration teams, and fire service commanders, reached the spot shortly after the incident was reported. Authorities are now conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion, possible lapses in emergency preparedness, and the adequacy of safety norms followed by the establishment.
The tragedy has cast a dark shadow over Goa’s bustling nightlife and tourist economy, especially as the peak travel season—December to February—draws large domestic and international crowds. Families of victims gathered near the site and at local hospitals through the night, waiting anxiously for identification reports and official updates.
President Droupadi Murmu expressed profound grief on Sunday over the catastrophic fire. In a message posted on X, she said, “Deeply pained by the tragic fire incident in North Goa district resulting in the loss of precious lives. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. May they find strength during this difficult time. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his distress over the incident and announced financial assistance for the affected families. In his post on X, he 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. Spoke to Goa CM Dr Pramod Sawant Ji about the situation. The State Government is providing all possible assistance to those affected.”
The Prime Minister approved an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased and ₹50,000 to each injured person under the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that rescue efforts were carried out on a “war footing” and assured strict action if negligence or safety violations are found. He emphasized that an expert committee will review fire safety compliance at high-density clubs, restaurants, and beach-side venues to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As investigators begin their probe, questions are emerging about whether the club had adequate fire alarms, emergency exits, and safety protocols in place. Forensic experts are expected to examine debris samples and blast residues to determine the exact cause of the explosion.
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The incident has triggered widespread concern among tourism stakeholders, who fear the tragedy could impact visitor sentiment during the busy holiday season. Meanwhile, condolences continue to pour in from across the country as Goa mourns the lives lost in a preventable disaster.
