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A massive fire broke out at the ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub in the Baga area of Goa, killing 25 people. People were dancing in the club when the fire started, and smoke spread within seconds. Preliminary investigations suggest that disregard for fire safety regulations and a possible cylinder blast were the likely causes.
Blaze at ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’
Panaji: A heartbreaking video has emerged of the fire at the 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub in the Baga area of Goa. The video shows people dancing on the dance floor with music playing when flames suddenly erupt on the club's ceiling. Within seconds, smoke filled the air, and the atmosphere quickly turned into one of panic and screams.
According to Goa Police, the fire broke out on the night of Saturday and Sunday. Preliminary investigations suggest a cylinder blast as a possible cause. Several eyewitnesses claim the fire started on the first floor of the club, where the dance floor was located. Many people were trapped in the smoke as the fire spread, and they died of suffocation.
25 people died in the tragedy, including 14 staff members and 4 tourists. The identities of seven bodies are yet to be confirmed. Several people are seriously injured and are receiving treatment. Most of the deceased were members of the kitchen staff.
The preliminary investigation also revealed that the nightclub had not complied with fire safety regulations. Essential safety measures such as emergency exits, ventilation, and alarm systems were inadequate. Officials said that if the regulations had been followed, many lives could have been saved.
Goa Police have arrested the nightclub owner, and a case of culpable homicide and negligence has also been registered against the manager. The nightclub has been sealed for now. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant ordered a magisterial inquiry and said that strict action would be taken against those responsible.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant visited the accident site and said that most of those killed in the incident were kitchen staff, including three women. He clarified that strict action would be taken against the club management and the officials who allowed the club to operate despite the negligence.