Goa, India – A devastating fire tore through a popular nightclub in Goa’s Arpora village, claiming the lives of at least 25 people, including several foreign tourists, in one of the deadliest incidents in the region in recent years. Authorities confirmed that 14 of the victims were staff members, while the nationalities of the tourists are yet to be confirmed.

The tragic incident has shocked both local residents and visitors, raising urgent questions about safety regulations at entertainment venues in India.

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Fire Suspected to Have Started from a Kitchen Cylinder Explosion

According to local authorities and media reports, the fire is believed to have erupted around midnight on Saturday due to a cylinder explosion in the kitchen area of the nightclub. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as flames spread rapidly through the structure, which was reportedly constructed using temporary materials like palm leaves that contributed to the fast-moving blaze.

Fatima Shaikh, a tourist present at the nightclub, told CNN affiliate News18:
“There was a sudden commotion as the flames started erupting. We rushed out of the club only to see that the entire structure was up in flames.”

At least 100 people were reportedly on the dance floor at the time of the fire, underscoring the scale of the disaster.

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Injured Victims and Ongoing Medical Care

Seven people have been hospitalized, including one individual suffering from severe burns covering 60% of their body. Goa’s Health Minister, Vishwajit Rane, confirmed that the injured were taken to Goa Medical College and Hospital, receiving “the best possible medical care” as emergency teams worked throughout the night.

Authorities reported that some victims died from burn injuries, while others succumbed to suffocation. Videos circulating on social media showed a large emergency response, with fire trucks and ambulances rushing to the scene.

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Arrests and Investigations

Local police have arrested four managers of the nightclub in connection with the fire. Authorities are investigating whether safety regulations were violated, and whether the nightclub had the necessary permits to operate.

Initial reports suggest the venue lacked the mandatory No Objection Certificate (NOC) and had been issued a demolition notice prior to the fire, which had been temporarily stayed by officials. The Director of Fire and Emergency Services, Nitin Raiker, confirmed that fire services extinguished the blaze within half an hour but highlighted that the club had not complied with fire safety norms.

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Government Response and Condolences

Goa’s Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant, expressed grief over the tragedy, stating, “Today is a very painful day for all of us in Goa.” He emphasized that an inquiry would be conducted to examine the cause of the fire and whether building and safety regulations were followed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered condolences, calling the fire “deeply saddening.” He pledged financial compensation of up to 200,000 rupees ($2,200) to the families of the deceased and 50,000 rupees ($556) to those injured.

Health and government officials have assured the public that all necessary support is being extended to the victims and their families.

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Goa: A Popular Tourist Destination

Goa, a small state on India’s west coast, is renowned for its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Portuguese heritage. The state attracts millions of domestic tourists and hundreds of thousands of foreign visitors every year. This tragic fire has cast a spotlight on safety concerns at entertainment venues in the region, particularly those catering to tourists.

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Key Takeaways

• Location: Arpora village, Goa, India
• Fatalities: At least 25 people, including 4 tourists
• Injuries: 7 hospitalized, including one with severe burns
• Cause: Suspected kitchen cylinder explosion; rapid spread due to temporary structure
• Response: Fire extinguished within 30 minutes; four nightclub managers arrested
• Government Action: Inquiry ordered; compensation announced by PM Modi

Authorities continue to investigate the tragedy, focusing on compliance with fire safety regulations and legal permits, while local communities mourn the victims of this devastating fire.