25 Killed In Goa’s Arpora Nightclub Fire: Cylinder Blast Sparks Deadly Blaze, Several Trapped Inside Die of Suffocation
North Goa, December 2025: A late-night fire at a popular nightclub in Arpora claimed at least 23 lives after a gas cylinder reportedly exploded inside the premises. The blaze erupted shortly after midnight at Birch by Romeo Lane, located near Baga, one of Goa’s busiest tourist belts.
According to police officials, the control room received a distress call at 12:04 am, following which emergency teams, including fire tenders and ambulances, rushed to the site. The fire was eventually brought under control, and all victims were recovered from the debris.
Initial investigations suggest that a majority of those killed were staff members working in the kitchen area, including three women. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who inspected the site, said a few tourists were also among the deceased. He stated that the club appeared to be operating without adhering to fire safety norms and assured strict action against both the management and officials who permitted the establishment to function.
Videos shared on social media showed the structure engulfed in flames as the fire spread rapidly through the building.
President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, extending condolences to families of the victims and wishing a quick recovery to the injured.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his condolences, noting that he had spoken to the Goa Chief Minister for updates. He announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh from the PMNRF for the families of those killed and ₹50,000 for the injured.
BJP MLA Michael Lobo described the incident as extremely distressing and called for an immediate safety audit of all nightclubs and entertainment venues in the state. He said several victims died due to suffocation after attempting to escape towards the basement, stressing the need for stronger enforcement of safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
