Key Points:
- 23 people confirmed dead, over 50 injured in Arpora nightclub fire
- Incident occurred at Birch by Romeo Lane near Baga beach around midnight
- LPG cylinder explosion in kitchen area suspected as primary cause
- Most victims were kitchen staff working in basement area
- Three to four tourists also among the deceased
- Victims died from burns and suffocation due to rapid smoke spread
- Goa CM Pramod Sawant visited site, ordered thorough investigation
- PM Modi announced Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia for families of deceased
- Club sealed as police investigate safety norm violations
A devastating cylinder explosion triggered a massive fire at Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora village, North Goa, killing 23 people and leaving over 50 injured in what officials are calling one of the state’s worst fire tragedies. The incident occurred around midnight on December 7, 2025, in the popular Baga beach area, approximately 25 kilometers from Panaji, when the coastal state was experiencing peak tourist season.
The fire originated in the kitchen area on the ground floor, where staff members were working during closing preparations. According to Goa Police Chief Alok Kumar, the powerful explosion left victims with little time to escape as flames engulfed the building within seconds. Rescue operations continued through the night as firefighters battled the blaze for nearly two hours before bringing it under control.
Victims and Casualties
The tragedy claimed mostly kitchen staff who were trapped in the basement area where escape routes were limited. Three women were among the 23 confirmed dead, along with three to four tourists who were present at the venue. Preliminary reports indicate that three victims died from burn injuries, while the remaining 20 succumbed to suffocation as thick smoke rapidly filled the enclosed basement space.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who visited the site immediately after the incident, expressed deep sorrow and stated, “Today is a very painful day for all of us in Goa.” He confirmed that post-mortem examinations were underway at Goa Medical College in Bambolim, where the injured were also receiving treatment. Local MLA Michael Lobo emphasized that no customers were present during the explosion, as they had evacuated earlier, and all victims were either staff members or a few remaining tourists.
Investigation and Safety Violations
A comprehensive investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the cylinder blast and examine potential safety norm violations. The Forensic Science Laboratory team has collected samples from the site, while a district-level inquiry focuses on whether illegal structural modifications, inadequate ventilation systems, or improper cylinder storage contributed to the high casualty count.
Chief Minister Sawant has vowed strict action against those responsible, stating, “Those found responsible will face the most stringent action under the law, any negligence will be dealt with firmly.” The investigation will scrutinize whether the club had proper fire safety certifications, functional emergency exits, and adequate fire extinguishing systems. Police have sealed the nightclub and are questioning the management and owners while examining documents related to safety compliance.
Government Response and Compensation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep anguish over the tragedy and announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the families of each deceased victim. The central government is coordinating with state authorities to ensure proper treatment for the injured and support for affected families.
The Goa government has directed hospital doctors to provide comprehensive care to the injured and has arranged counseling support for families of the victims. The tragedy has raised serious questions about fire safety enforcement in commercial establishments, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like North Goa, where numerous clubs and restaurants operate during the peak season.
Officials expect the detailed investigation to reveal whether routine safety inspections were conducted and how the establishment received operating permits despite potential safety lapses in the basement kitchen area where most victims were trapped.
