25 killed in fire at North Goa Arpora nightclub in Birch, Romeo Lane, criminal investigation and safety concerns initiated

At least 25 people were killed and several injured in a massive fire at a popular nightclub in North Goa’s Arpora village late Saturday night, triggering a criminal investigation, political uproar and nationwide shock.

Here are the key facts at a glance

Event:

The fire broke out after midnight at Birch by Romeo Lane, a crowded nightclub in Arpora village, about 25 km from Panaji. This club was opened only last year.

Death toll: 25 people died, Goa Police confirmed. Most of the victims were kitchen workers, including three women. Three to four tourists are also among the dead.

Cause of deaths: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said three victims died of burns, while the rest died of suffocation.

Possible cause of fire: Police said the fire was caused by a cylinder explosion, although witnesses claimed the fire started in the dance area on the first floor.

There was a stampede like stampede: With about 100 people on the dance floor, panic spread quickly. Many customers ran towards the ground floor kitchen, where many became trapped.

Structural Hazards: The temporary construction made of palm leaves inside the venue caught fire easily. There were narrow lanes to enter the club, forcing fire engines to park about 400 meters away.

Security breach: CM Sawant confirmed that the night club did not follow fire safety norms. Magisterial inquiry has been ordered.

legal action: An FIR has been lodged against the owner and general manager of the club and arrest has been assured by the government.

Early warnings were ignored: Arpora-Nagoa Panchayat said that the club does not have construction permission. Earlier a demolition notice was issued but the Panchayat Directorate had put a stay on it.

Relief announcement: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for each deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. Home Minister Amit Shah described the tragedy as “deeply painful”.