A devastating fire at a nightclub in Goa has resulted in the deaths of 25 people, with preliminary investigations revealing multiple and severe breaches of safety regulations.
The fire erupted late Saturday night at the Birch by Romeo Lane venue, a popular bar and nightclub in Goa’s northern Aporna district. While most patrons managed to escape, the majority of the victims were staff members who became trapped in a basement area that lacked a designated fire exit.
Authorities confirmed that the establishment had violated several safety codes. The structure, built extensively from wood and bamboo, was hosting a live performance involving pyrotechnics at the time the fire started. An initial technical report suggests a possible electrical short-circuit above the main stage as a potential ignition source, with the highly combustible interior materials allowing the blaze to spread rapidly.
Among the deceased were four members of a family from Delhi, who were on their first holiday to the coastal state. According to accounts from friends, the group re-entered the burning building in a desperate attempt to rescue a relative, but were unable to escape the ensuing chaos and obstructed exits.
The nightclub’s general manager, owners, and event organizers have been arrested and face charges. The local government has announced the formation of a high-level committee to investigate the tragedy, with its findings expected within a week. The emergency response was reportedly hindered by the venue’s location in an area with narrow access lanes.