A devastating fire ripped through the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, Goa, late Saturday night, claiming the lives of 25 people and injuring approximately 50 more. The tragedy has brought into sharp focus the deadly combination of inadequate safety measures and readily combustible materials that transformed the popular nightlife spot into a death trap.
Initial investigations suggest that the nightclub had not followed fire safety standards and was operating without the mandatory permissions. Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that primary information indicates that the nightclub had not followed fire safety norms. The narrow entrance and exit of the club significantly hampered evacuation efforts as people tried to escape the blaze.
The fire, which broke out around midnight, is suspected to have been triggered by a cylinder blast in the kitchen area. A security guard nearby reported hearing a loud explosion. The flames quickly spread through the establishment, which witnesses say had decor that was quick to burn. One eyewitness claimed the fire started on the club's first floor, where tourists were dancing. The club was constructed with "palm-leaf" which easily caught fire, according to a witness.
The majority of the victims, including 4 tourists, appear to be club staff who were working in the kitchen area. Many died after running towards the basement and becoming trapped, with two victims being found on the staircase. Most of the fatalities were due to suffocation, while some succumbed to burn injuries.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Goa government has ordered a magisterial inquiry to determine the exact cause of the fire and to fix responsibility. Chief Minister Sawant affirmed that stringent action would be taken against those found guilty of negligence. An FIR has been lodged against the owner and general manager of the nightclub, and arrests have begun. The inquiry is expected to include scrutiny of emergency exits, ventilation, and structural compliance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief over the incident and announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh for the next of kin of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.
This fire is not an isolated incident. Building fires are relatively common in India due to poor building practices, overcrowding, and a lack of adherence to safety regulations. In May 2025, a fire in Hyderabad killed 15 people. In response to the Goa tragedy, calls for stricter enforcement of fire safety norms and regular safety audits of establishments have grown louder. BJP MLA Michael Lobo called for a safety audit of all clubs in Goa.
The Goa government has issued emergency helpline numbers to assist families, tourists, and residents affected by the fire. As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring accountability and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
