A devastating fire erupted at a popular nightclub in North Goa’s Arpora district just after midnight Sunday, resulting in at least 25 fatalities and multiple injuries. According to Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, the majority of victims were kitchen staff, with three to four tourists among the deceased. Six injured individuals are currently receiving medical treatment in stable condition.
Preliminary investigations by local police, cited by the Press Trust of India, indicate the blaze originated from a gas cylinder explosion that rapidly engulfed the establishment. The tragedy unfolded during peak hours with approximately 100 patrons on the dance floor. Chaos ensued as the fire spread, with several attendees and staff becoming trapped in the kitchen area beneath the main hall.
Critical structural deficiencies severely hampered rescue operations. Firefighting crews faced significant obstacles due to the venue’s narrow entry points, forcing emergency vehicles to park approximately 400 meters from the scene. This constrained access delayed containment efforts substantially.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, local officials revealed the nightclub had been operating without proper construction permits. Roshan Redkar, a village council official, confirmed authorities had previously issued a demolition notice that was subsequently revoked by higher-level administrators.
The Goa state government has initiated a formal inquiry to determine the exact cause of the incident and assess compliance with fire safety protocols and building regulations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sorrow regarding the tragedy, confirming he has coordinated with state leadership to ensure comprehensive support for affected families.
This incident highlights persistent regulatory enforcement challenges in India’s public venues, where safety standards are frequently compromised. Gas-related accidents remain particularly prevalent across the country, underscoring urgent needs for enhanced safety measures in commercial establishments.