A devastating fire at a popular nightclub in North Goa's Arpora area claimed at least 25 lives in the early hours of Sunday, leaving a trail of horror and triggering a high-level investigation. The blaze, which erupted just after midnight at the 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub, also left several injured, with authorities suspecting a cylinder blast as the possible cause.
Survivors Recount Moments of Panic and Chaos
Eyewitnesses present at the scene described a night of celebration that swiftly turned into a nightmare. Riya, a tourist from Delhi, reported seeing firecrackers bursting near the dance floor during a performance moments before the inferno began. "The fire must have been caused due to this. There was a stampede-like situation," she told PTI, explaining how she barely managed to escape before the flames engulfed the venue.
Fatima Shaikh from Hyderabad highlighted the club's packed state due to the weekend crowd. She described a sudden commotion as flames erupted, prompting a frantic rush for exits. "We rushed out of the club only to see that the entire structure was up in flames," she said. Tragically, many fleeing patrons ran downstairs towards the kitchen, unaware it was a dead-end, where they became trapped alongside staff members. Fatima noted the club was a temporary structure made of highly flammable palm leaves, which contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
A Swift and Deadly Blaze
Accounts from security personnel and nearby residents paint a picture of a disaster that unfolded within minutes. A security guard at a neighbouring restaurant said the first indication was a "massive explosion." Sanjay Kumar Gupta, a guard at the venue, stated, "Suddenly, there was a fire. I was at the gate. A DJ and dancer were going to perform, and it was about to get really crowded."
Tourists in adjacent hotels saw alarming reddish flames lighting up the night sky from a distance, even as police arrived to control the chaotic scene. One local resident recalled hearing ambulance sirens around midnight but only comprehended the scale of the tragedy the following morning.
Official Response and Investigation
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant provided crucial details on the aftermath, confirming that most deaths were due to suffocation. The police revealed that among the deceased were four tourists and fourteen staff members, with seven victims yet to be identified. Chief Minister Sawant announced that arrests have been made and a warrant has been issued against the nightclub owners, vowing strict action against those responsible for the tragedy.
The incident has drawn condolences from the highest levels of government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed their grief over the loss of lives. Authorities have also announced ex gratia compensation for the victims' families.
The tragedy also underscored how fate played a role for some. Avanish, a visitor from Delhi, revealed that he and his friends narrowly avoided being inside the club because their taxi was late. "Actually, we got lucky, or else we would be here," he said, reflecting on the close escape.
