Goa woke up to horror on Sunday after a massive fire ripped through a crowded nightclub in Arpora, killing at least 25 people and injuring six others in what officials are calling the deadliest nightlife tragedy in the state’s history.
The inferno erupted just after midnight inside the newly opened two-storey entertainment venue—one of North Goa’s most popular weekend destinations. Initial investigations point to a gas cylinder explosion, which triggered flames that rapidly consumed the dance floor and bar area, leaving dozens trapped.
CM Orders Magisterial Probe; FIR Filed, Accused on the Run
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant condemned the incident and immediately ordered a magisterial inquiry, calling the tragedy “a shocking example of gross negligence.”
An FIR has been registered against the nightclub’s owner and general manager, who fled shortly after the incident.
“They will be arrested soon. Strictest action will follow. No one responsible will escape accountability,”
— Pramod Sawant, Goa CM
The state has announced Rs 2 lakh compensation for each victim’s family and Rs 50,000 for the injured, while the Centre is expected to provide additional financial relief.
Eyewitnesses Describe Terrifying Scenes
Survivors recalled moments of pure panic as thick smoke filled the hall within minutes.
“The fire started near the DJ console. People screamed, pushed, and ran blindly. The exits were blocked. No one knew where to go,”
— Anish Fernandes, eyewitness
Several guests, including foreign tourists, jumped from the first floor to save themselves. Many were injured as crowds rushed to escape through narrow staircases choked with smoke.
Fire Safety Lapses Under Intense Scrutiny
Preliminary findings by the North Goa Fire Department have uncovered severe safety violations:
●No valid fire safety clearance
●Non-functional fire extinguishing systems
●Blocked emergency exits
●Lack of mandatory safety drills
●Unauthorized use of gas cylinders
Officials also revealed that while the club sought an occupancy extension, permission for cooking with gas cylinders was never approved.
A senior official said:
“This was a disaster waiting to happen.”
Two-Hour Battle to Control Flames
Eight fire tenders from Mapusa, Panaji, and Bicholim battled the blaze for nearly two hours, finally extinguishing the flames around 3 a.m.
Rescue teams recovered charred bodies from the dance area, restrooms, and a storage section. Forensic experts are now working to identify badly burned remains.
Two of the injured remain in critical condition at GMCH.
PM Modi, Amit Shah React
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief:
“The tragedy in Goa is extremely distressing. My thoughts are with the families who lost loved ones.”
Home Minister Amit Shah said the NDRF is on standby and ready to assist in ongoing operations.
Nightlife Under the Scanner: A Wake-Up Call for Goa
The horrific incident has reignited debate over poor fire safety compliance in Goa’s rapidly growing nightlife sector.
Former fire officer Denzil Pereira said:
“Goa’s nightlife expanded faster than its safety infrastructure. This tragedy must force genuine reform.”
The state has now ordered a full safety audit of all clubs, pubs, and high-capacity entertainment venues within 15 days.
