UPDATE: A devastating fire at a popular nightclub in Arpora, Goa, has tragically claimed the lives of 25 people, including tourists, just after midnight on Sunday. Goa’s Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed the casualties, stating that most victims were kitchen workers, along with three to four tourists who were attending the event.
The blaze erupted in a nightclub located approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the state capital, Panaji. Eyewitness reports indicate that chaos ensued as flames broke out on the club’s first floor, where nearly 100 patrons were dancing. Many fled to the kitchen below for safety, becoming trapped alongside staff members.
According to the Press Trust of India, the fire was ignited by a gas cylinder explosion. Firefighters struggled to reach the scene due to the club’s narrow entrance, forcing them to park their tankers about 400 meters (1,300 feet) away, which delayed their response. All bodies have been recovered, and six individuals are currently hospitalized but in stable condition.
Chief Minister Sawant revealed that the nightclub had violated fire safety regulations, prompting the state government to initiate an inquiry into the incident. “We will take action against the club management and officials responsible for allowing it to operate despite safety violations,” he stated.
Local council member Roshan Redkar disclosed that authorities had previously issued a demolition notice for the club due to the absence of a construction permit. However, higher officials had rescinded this order, which has raised questions about governance and safety oversight.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as “deeply saddening” and assured that the government is providing “all possible assistance” to the victims’ families. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the incident as a “criminal failure of safety and governance,” calling for a transparent investigation to ensure accountability and prevent future tragedies.
The incident underscores the pressing need for stringent safety regulations in India, where accidents involving gas cylinders and electrical failures are tragically common. As the investigation unfolds, the focus turns to how such preventable tragedies can be avoided in the future.
The western coastal state of Goa, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and sandy beaches, is one of India’s most sought-after tourist destinations. The loss of life in this incident serves as a harsh reminder of the importance of enforcing safety protocols in public venues.
As more details emerge, stay tuned for updates on this developing story.