Panaji, Dec 7: At least 25 persons were killed and six others injured in a massive fire that erupted after midnight on Sunday at a nightclub in North Goa, police said. Authorities, who had initially confirmed 23 deaths, later updated the toll to 25.
The fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora claimed the lives of four tourists and 14 staff members, while the identities of the remaining seven victims were yet to be established, a police spokesperson said. Six injured persons are undergoing treatment at the Goa Medical College and Hospital in Bambolim.
The cause of the blaze is still unknown. Police and the fire department have begun an investigation, and legal action is being taken, officials said. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated that initial information indicated non-compliance with mandatory fire safety norms by the nightclub, which opened last year and is a popular party venue located around 25 km from Panaji.
Sawant said strict action would be taken against the club management and officials who allowed the establishment to operate despite violations. Calling it one of the most painful incidents in Goa’s tourism history, he confirmed the arrest of managers and staff members and said an arrest warrant has been issued against the club owners. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered to identify the cause and fix responsibility.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the tragedy and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. He said the state government is providing all possible assistance.
President Droupadi Murmu, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also condoled the loss of lives, calling the incident deeply painful and extending prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured.
Emergency teams worked through the night to control the blaze, and authorities continue efforts to determine the exact cause of the fire. (Agencies)
