A devastating fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, claimed 25 lives, including tourists and staff, after a suspected cylinder blast triggered a blaze shortly after midnight on Sunday. The incident has raised urgent questions about safety compliance, access routes, and the legality of the nightclub’s construction.
Authorities confirmed that the fire spread rapidly due to the structure’s palm-leaf-based temporary roofing, which caught fire easily and engulfed the premises within minutes. Eyewitnesses reported panic on the crowded dance floor, with many people rushing toward a narrow staircase that led to the kitchen, where several became trapped.
Narrow Access Delays Firefighters
The nightclub’s remote backwater location and single narrow approach road made rescue efforts difficult. Fire engines were forced to halt nearly 400 metres away, significantly delaying containment efforts. A senior fire officer said restricted access “made it challenging to reach the spot and control the blaze in time.”
Arrests, FIR, and Warrant Issued
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that nightclub managers have been arrested and an FIR has been registered against the owner and general manager. Arrest warrants have also been issued.
Sawant announced a magisterial inquiry and assured strict accountability. He said, “Whoever is found guilty will be put behind bars.”
Illegal Construction and Demolition Notices
Roshan Redkar, the sarpanch of Arpora village, revealed that the club was operating without a construction licence. Multiple demolition notices had been issued earlier, but action was stalled due to appeals.
Families and Survivors Speak Out
A tourist from Jharkhand reported losing two family members working at the nightclub’s kitchen. Another visitor from Delhi said he narrowly escaped the tragedy because his taxi arrived late.
Political Leaders React
Political reactions poured in from across the country:
PM Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah expressed condolences.
Arvind Kejriwal, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi called for accountability and thorough investigation.
The Goa Congress demanded CM Pramod Sawant’s resignation, calling the incident an example of “complete regulatory collapse.”
MPs from Shiv Sena (UBT), CPI(M), and RJD criticized lapses in safety enforcement and governance.
Injured Under Treatment
Six injured individuals are currently stable and receiving medical care, according to the chief minister.
Witness Accounts
Eyewitnesses spoke of a loud explosion, believed to be from a gas cylinder, followed by flames rapidly consuming the structure. One tourist, Fatima Shaikh, said the palm-leaf construction “caught fire instantly,” leaving the crowd with little time to react.
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