A horrific fire has claimed the lives of at least 23 people after tearing through a popular nightclub in India's coastal tourist hotspot of Goa. The tragedy struck the Birch by Romeo Lane venue in Arpora, North Goa, around midnight on Saturday, casting a pall over the region's peak holiday period.
Chief Minister Confirms Death Toll and Launches Inquiry
Goa's Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant, confirmed the devastating death toll in a statement posted on social media platform X on Sunday. "Today is a very painful day for all of us in Goa. A major fire incident at Arpora has taken the lives of 23 people," he wrote, expressing his profound grief and offering condolences to the bereaved families.
Sawant stated he had personally visited the scene of the disaster. He announced that an official inquiry into the cause of the fire is now underway, vowing that "those found responsible will face most stringent action under the law." He emphasised that any negligence would be dealt with firmly.
Tourists Among Victims in Peak Season Blaze
The fire is believed to have originated from a cylinder explosion inside the packed nightclub. Preliminary reports indicate that three of the victims died from burn injuries, while the majority succumbed to suffocation caused by the intense smoke.
In a sombre detail, Chief Minister Sawant informed journalists that "three to four tourists" were among the deceased. This underscores the broader impact of the incident, as Goa's winter months are its busiest time for domestic and international visitors seeking sun and revelry.
The coastal town of Arpora, part of the famous North Goa belt, is typically bustling with activity during this season. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community and the wider tourism industry.
Community and Authorities Respond to Tragedy
Emergency services responded to the late-night blaze, but the fire's ferocity led to significant loss of life. The incident raises immediate questions about safety protocols and regulations at entertainment venues in high-traffic tourist areas.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the victims' families and understanding the sequence of events that led to the catastrophic fire. The promise of a thorough probe offers a measure of hope for accountability, but the loss of 23 lives marks a profoundly dark day for Goa.
