A day after the tragic fire at “Birch by Romeo Lane” in Arpora, Goa, authorities have released a detailed account of the incident that claimed twenty-five lives. All victims have been identified, and officials have confirmed that twenty of them were staff members working inside the premises when the fire broke out. Five of the deceased were visitors from other states.
Basement Turned Into a Fatal Trap
Investigators believe the fire started in the basement kitchen, likely caused by a gas-cylinder malfunction. Thick smoke filled the enclosed space within minutes, leaving those inside with no opportunity to escape. Rescue teams noted that most victims died due to suffocation rather than burn injuries. The basement had no emergency exit or ventilation, and in the ensuing panic several people are believed to have run downstairs instead of toward the two exits on the ground floor.
Multiple Fire-Safety Violations Confirmed
Authorities have confirmed that the nightclub was operating without a fire department no-objection certificate. Essential safety features such as sprinklers, hydrants and smoke alarms were missing or non-functional. Structural modifications, including setting up a kitchen in the basement, were allegedly carried out without mandatory approval. The wooden interiors and false ceilings contributed to rapid smoke spread, intensifying the disaster.
Government Suspends Officials
In response to the incident, the Goa government has suspended three officials involved in granting the nightclub’s licence in 2023. They include the panchayat director, the Goa Pollution Control Board secretary and the village-panchayat secretary. Officials admitted that safety checks were either incomplete or bypassed during the approval process. The state has also ordered fresh fire-safety audits across nightlife establishments in North Goa.
Police Arrest Manager, Hunt for Owner Continues
Police have arrested the general manager of the nightclub, who was on duty at the time of the fire. A lookout notice has been issued for the owner, who has been untraceable since the incident. Investigators are examining whether charges including culpable homicide and negligence should be filed as part of the larger probe.
Families Demand Justice and Compensation
Families of the deceased, most of whom were young staff members, have demanded compensation and a judicial inquiry. Several relatives claimed the workers were unaware of the safety violations in the basement area, particularly the lack of ventilation and emergency exits.
State Promises Strict Action and Safety Overhaul
The Goa government has assured strict action and announced plans to introduce stronger fire-safety regulations, conduct surprise inspections and issue guidelines restricting basement usage in commercial venues. Authorities said these measures are essential to prevent further tragedies, especially with the tourist season at its peak.
Forensic Teams Begin Detailed Examination
Post-mortem examinations have been completed, and forensic teams are analysing gas cylinders, electrical systems and structural materials to determine the precise cause of the fire. Firefighters described the rescue operation as extremely challenging, with dense smoke limiting visibility and victims found clustered along basement walls in search of air.