A devastating fire ripped through a nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, late Saturday night, claiming the lives of at least 23 people. The tragedy occurred around midnight at the "Birch by Romeo Lane" club in Baga, one of the coastal region's most popular beaches, during peak tourist season.

Authorities suspect that a gas cylinder explosion in the club's kitchen area triggered the blaze. The fire rapidly engulfed the venue, trapping many inside. According to Goa's Director General of Police, Alok Kumar, the fire was mainly concentrated around the kitchen area on the ground floor. Firefighters and police teams immediately rushed to the scene, working through the night to conduct rescue operations.

The majority of the victims are believed to be staff members of the club. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that three to four tourists were also among the dead. While three people died from burn injuries, most of the fatalities resulted from suffocation. The bodies have been recovered and sent to the government medical college in Bambolim.

Chief Minister Sawant expressed his grief, calling it "a very painful day for all of us in Goa". He has ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident, stating that "those found responsible will face the most stringent action under the law" and that "any negligence will be dealt with firmly". Preliminary information suggests the nightclub may have failed to comply with fire safety norms.

Local BJP MLA Michael Lobo stated that the Calangute panchayat will issue notices to all nightclubs on Monday, requiring them to provide fire safety clearances. He also mentioned that officials would conduct fire safety audits of all clubs to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Goa, a former Portuguese colony on the Arabian Sea, is a popular tourist destination known for its nightlife, beaches, and resorts. The incident has cast a pall over the region, and authorities are taking steps to ensure that safety regulations are strictly enforced to prevent future tragedies.