A devastating fire ripped through the popular Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in North Goa's Arpora late Saturday night, resulting in the tragic loss of 23 lives. The inferno, suspected to have been triggered by a cylinder blast, rapidly consumed the establishment, leaving behind a scene of ashes and debris.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The fire broke out at the restaurant and nightclub located in the tourist hub of Arpora. Preliminary reports suggest a cylinder explosion may have been the cause, leading to the fast-spreading blaze that trapped victims inside. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed the death toll, stating that three to four tourists were among the deceased. The majority of those killed were reported to be the club's kitchen staff, which included three women.
"Today is a very painful day for all of us in Goa," CM Sawant expressed in a post on social media platform X. He announced that he visited the accident site and has ordered a formal inquiry into the incident. The Chief Minister emphasized that the probe would examine the exact cause of the fire and scrutinize compliance with fire safety and building regulations, vowing stringent action against any negligence.
Official Response and Safety Audit Demand
Elaborating on the nature of the fatalities, the Chief Minister revealed that while three individuals succumbed to burn injuries, the others died due to suffocation. The preliminary investigation has already indicated that the nightclub was in violation of fire safety norms.
In the wake of the disaster, BJP MLA Michael Lobo called for immediate measures to prevent future tragedies. "I am disturbed because of the incident," Lobo stated on Sunday. He highlighted that most victims were locals working in the restaurant's basement. The MLA stressed the urgent need for a safety audit of all clubs in Goa, underscoring that the state's reputation as a safe tourist destination must be upheld and the safety of both workers and visitors ensured.
Community in Mourning and Path Forward
The tragic event has sent shockwaves through the state and the nation. Chief Minister Sawant extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, acknowledging their unimaginable loss. The incident has cast a spotlight on the critical importance of adhering to safety protocols in hospitality and entertainment venues, especially in high-traffic tourist areas like Goa.
As authorities begin their detailed investigation, the focus remains on determining the precise chain of events that led to the catastrophic fire and holding accountable those responsible for any lapses. The call for a statewide safety audit signals a potential shift towards stricter enforcement of regulations to safeguard lives in the future.
