A major fire broke out at a well-known nightclub in North Goa's Anjuna area in the early hours of Sunday, sending panic among revellers and staff. The incident occurred at the iconic beach shack and nightclub 'Curlies', a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
Eyewitness Account of the Chaos
An eyewitness present at the scene provided a chilling account of the moments when the fire erupted. The witness stated that at least 100 people were on the dance floor when the fire started. The blaze reportedly began on the first floor of the establishment around 4:30 AM, a time when the venue was still operational and crowded with patrons.
The sudden outbreak of flames caused immediate chaos and a stampede as people scrambled to find exits. The eyewitness described a scene of utter confusion, with thick smoke filling the air and people screaming as they tried to escape. The primary concern was the sheer number of individuals packed into the venue at that hour, which complicated evacuation efforts.
Emergency Response and Damage Control
Fire tenders from the Anjuna fire station were promptly alerted and rushed to the location. Firefighters battled the flames for several hours to bring the situation under control. Their swift action is credited with preventing any loss of life, although there were reports of minor injuries sustained during the rush to exit the building.
The cause of the fire is not yet officially determined and is under investigation by the authorities. Preliminary assessments suggest the fire might have originated from an electrical short circuit, but a final conclusion will only come after a detailed probe. The fire caused significant damage to the structure and property of the nightclub, reducing a large portion of it to ashes.
Aftermath and Official Reactions
The incident has raised serious questions about fire safety compliance at popular entertainment venues in Goa, especially those operating late into the night. Local officials have confirmed that an investigation has been launched to ascertain the exact cause and to check if the establishment had the necessary fire safety clearances and equipment in place.
This is not the first time Curlies has faced controversy; the shack was previously demolished in 2022 for alleged Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) violations but had later reopened. The recurrence of a serious incident at the same location has amplified calls for stricter enforcement of safety norms. The state's tourism and police departments are likely to review safety protocols for all beach shacks and nightclubs in the wake of this fire.
The fire at Curlies has sent shockwaves through Goa's vibrant nightlife circuit, highlighting the potential risks in crowded entertainment zones. It serves as a stark reminder for venue owners to prioritize safety measures and for authorities to conduct regular, unannounced checks to ensure public safety is never compromised.
