4 tourists among 25 killed in fire at Goa nightclub: What we know so far

The fire broke out at the nightclub “Birch” in North Goa’s Arpora late Saturday night. Preliminary investigation reveals that the blaze began in the basement of the club at around 11.45 pm. It is suspected to have then spread to the first floor, which houses a bar and restaurant. At least 25 people, including four tourists and 14 staff members, were killed, and six others were injured.

Although police initially received information suggesting a cylinder blast, injuries sustained by the victims suggest otherwise. Goa DGP Alok Kumar said, “The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. We are also checking if the club had complied with fire safety norms and whether they had the requisite fire-safety NOC.”

Investigators are also examining whether the blaze may have been triggered by a pyro sparkle gun—often used at parties and events—that may have come into contact with flammable material on the roof, causing the fire to spread rapidly.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant expressed grief over the incident, calling it a “very painful day” for everyone in Goa. He ordered a detailed inquiry to determine the exact cause of the fire and to assess whether fire-safety norms and building regulations were followed. He added that those “found responsible will face the most stringent action under the law — any negligence will be dealt with firmly.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and assured all possible assistance to those affected. His office announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.

On X, he wrote, “The fire mishap in Arpora, Goa is deeply saddening. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest. Spoke to Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Ji about the situation. The state government is providing all possible assistance to those affected.”

A safety audit has been ordered for all clubs in Goa.

"Tourists have always considered Goa a very safe destination. The fire incident is quite disturbing and such incidents should not happen in the future. The safety of tourists and the workers in these establishments is extremely important. Most people died due to suffocation as they ran towards the basement,” Calangute MLA Michael Lobo said.

He further said that the Calangute panchayat will be issuing notices to all the nightclubs on Monday asking them to provide fire safety permissions and licenses. The clubs not having the requisite permissions will be cancelled.