GOA: In a tragic incident, a massive fire broke out at a nightclub in Arpora late last night, claiming at least 25 lives and injuring around 50 people, officials confirmed. The injured have been admitted to Goa Medical College and are undergoing treatment.
Preliminary reports suggest that most deaths occurred due to suffocation caused by heavy smoke. Among the deceased, authorities have so far identified four tourists and 14 staff members, while the identities of seven others are still being verified to determine whether they were visitors or employees.
The fire is believed to have started around 1 am, initially suspected to have been triggered by a cylinder blast near the kitchen.
Multiple fire tenders were rushed to the scene, and after nearly two hours of operations, the blaze was brought under control. Rescue teams continued working through the night, retrieving bodies and searching for anyone trapped inside. The remains of the victims have been sent for post-mortem examination.
Leaders express grief as Centre announces compensation
Terming the tragedy “very painful,” Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said he has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the cause of the fire and possible lapses in safety compliance.
BJP MLA Michael Lobo also stated that while some victims were tourists, most were local staff working in the basement, adding that many succumbed to suffocation while attempting to escape downward.
Condolences poured in from national leaders.
President Droupadi Murmu said she was “deeply pained by the tragic fire incident in North Goa district resulting in the loss of precious lives,” extending condolences to families and wishing recovery for the injured.
Calling the incident “deeply saddening,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he had spoken to the Goa Chief Minister and assured that the state government was providing all assistance.
The PM announced ₹2 lakh ex-gratia from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed grief, saying the “tragic loss of lives” was “deeply painful,” adding that local authorities are actively engaged in rescue and relief.
Investigations underway
A detailed investigation is in progress to ascertain the exact cause and whether negligence contributed to the scale of the disaster. Authorities are also working to identify remaining victims and contact families.
