A catastrophic fire at a popular nightclub in Goa has been attributed to a complete and systemic failure in implementing even the most basic fire safety norms. The blaze at The Birch by Romeo Lane in Panaji resulted in a tragic loss of life, with officials pointing to a long history of negligence.
A Litany of Lapses and Regulatory Failures
According to the fire department's investigation, the establishment was operating without a valid No Objection Certificate (NOC). Fire department director Nitin Raiker stated that records confirmed the club did not have the mandatory clearance, indicating clear non-compliance with safety regulations. The club also lacked a proper construction licence.
The list of violations was extensive and alarming. The fire department's report highlighted:
- Absence of functional fire alarm and automatic sprinkler systems.
- No smoke extraction or basement ventilation systems.
- Inadequate number and width of emergency exits, which were also obstructed.
- Missing illuminated exit signage and emergency lighting.
- Lack of fire-rated doors and proper compartmentalisation to slow fire spread.
- No formal evacuation plans for patrons.
In a damning summary, a fire official said, "In one word, there were zero fire safety measures."
Illegal Fireworks and Obstructed Escape Routes
The investigation revealed that unauthorized hazardous activities directly contributed to the disaster. Nitin Raiker noted that prima facie evidence showed firework activities were being conducted on the club's external frontage at the time. "This activity significantly increased ignition risk. Fireworks near commercial establishments, without proper isolation distances and permits, present a severe and unacceptable fire risk," he emphasized.
While emergency responders arrived promptly, their efforts were hampered by narrow access routes. The situation inside was even grimmer. The basement, where many victims were found, had inadequate ventilation and obstructed means of egress, effectively trapping people inside during the panic.
Call for Strict Enforcement and Modern Solutions
The fire department's report concludes with a stern warning and recommendations to prevent future tragedies. It calls for the immediate enforcement of compliance measures and strict regulation of high-risk activities like fireworks near crowded venues.
Furthermore, the department advocates for the implementation of modern fire engineering solutions in all public spaces. The incident underscores a critical failure in fire prevention engineering, regulatory oversight, and life safety preparedness—a combination that proved fatal for the patrons of The Birch by Romeo Lane.
