At least 25 people were killed after a fire broke out at a popular nightclub in North Goa, India. The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Saturday (6 December). The information was confirmed early on Sunday (7 December) by local officials and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.
The incident has been reported by several international media outlets, including the BBC, Indian Express, NDTV and PTI.
According to reports, the nightclub, named “Barch by Romeo Lane”, is located at Baga Beach in Arpora, a northern district of Goa. Baga Beach is one of the most popular seaside destinations in the state.
Reports said the fire originated in the club’s kitchen after a gas cylinder exploded, causing the flames to spread rapidly. Fire service personnel managed to bring the blaze under control in the early hours of Sunday.
State police officials said that most of the bodies were recovered from the kitchen and nearby areas. It is believed that the majority of those killed were employees of the nightclub. In addition, the bodies of a few tourists were also recovered.
After the fire was extinguished, Goa Director General of Police Alok Kumar told reporters that the fire was largely confined to the club’s kitchen and first floor. He said most of the recovered bodies were found in and around the kitchen area, indicating that the victims were mainly club staff.
He added that the bodies of three to four tourists were also recovered, although their identities could not yet be confirmed.
Meanwhile, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant expressed deep sorrow over the incident in a statement. He said it was a very sad day for all residents of Goa and extended heartfelt condolences to those who lost their relatives and loved ones, describing the loss as irreparable.
The chief minister also said that the state government has already ordered an investigation into the incident and assured that all those responsible for negligence leading to the tragedy would be brought under the law.
Khaborwala/SS
