Tragic Nightclub Fire Claims 23 Lives in Goa

Mon Dec 08 2025 03:50:33 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A deadly fire at a nightclub in Goa has resulted in the loss of at least 23 lives, primarily among staff members. An investigation into the cause is underway.

A devastating fire broke out at Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Goa, India, leading to the death of at least 23 individuals, including staff and tourists. The blaze, reportedly caused by a gas cylinder explosion, began around midnight and has prompted a formal inquiry with assurances of stringent action against those responsible. Goa's Chief Minister expressed deep condolences to the victims' families.

At least 23 people have been killed in a fire at a popular nightclub in the coastal region of Goa, India, local officials report.

The majority of the victims are believed to be staff at the club in Arpora, North Goa, but tourists are also among the deceased. Authorities suspect that a gas cylinder exploded in the kitchen, triggering a fire that engulfed the venue around midnight on Saturday, local time.

Goa's Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant, said in a statement, Today is a very painful day for all of us in Goa. He confirmed that the fire was primarily concentrated in the kitchen area of the ground floor, and though it has since been controlled, the tragedy has left a significant impact on the local community.

According to Shri Alok Kumar, Goa's Director General of Police, most of the bodies were discovered around the kitchen area, indicating that the victims were mainly employees of the club. Local reports specify that the incident occurred at Birch by Romeo Lane, located at one of Goa’s popular beaches.

Rescue operations continued into the early hours of Sunday. Preliminary reports indicate that three people succumbed to burn injuries, while others died from asphyxiation. Chief Minister Sawant revealed that several tourists also died, although their identities are yet to be confirmed.

A formal investigation into the fire's cause has been initiated, with the Chief Minister promising that individuals found responsible will face severe consequences under the law. “I am deeply grieved and offer my heartfelt condolences to all the bereaved families in this hour of unimaginable loss,” he added.

Goa, which is a former Portuguese colony on the Arabian Sea, is renowned for attracting millions of tourists each year due to its vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches, and luxurious resorts.