A massive fire erupted late on 6 December 2025 at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, claiming at least 25 lives. The deceased include 14 staff members, four tourists, and others who died primarily due to suffocation, while some sustained fatal burn injuries. Six people were injured. Rescue operations continued into Sunday morning.
Preliminary findings indicate the blaze may have been triggered by a gas cylinder explosion or sparks from overhead lighting during a performance. The fire spread rapidly due to highly flammable materials, including dry palm leaves used in temporary structures within the premises.
Multiple videos circulating on social media captured the unfolding chaos. One clip shows flames erupting from the ceiling during a dance act as panicked patrons search for exits. Another video shows the entire structure engulfed in a “fireball,” followed by visuals of complete devastation after the flames were doused. These visuals highlight severe overcrowding, narrow access lanes that delayed fire tenders, and the horizontal spread of the fire along the club’s ceiling.
An FIR for culpable homicide has been registered at Anjuna police station against the club’s owners, Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, along with unnamed partners, managers, event organisers, and staff members. Authorities noted the absence of fire safety equipment, emergency exits, and valid operational licences. Arpora-Nagoa panchayat sarpanch Roshan Redkar was arrested for allegedly issuing an unauthorised trade licence in 2013 despite violations. Four managers have been detained, and three senior government officials, including the former Panchayat Director, were suspended for permitting operations.
Investigations revealed that the nightclub was functioning without a fire NOC, had narrow entry and exit points, poor ventilation, and used highly combustible materials. The structure was also constructed illegally on backwaters, with an earlier demolition notice reportedly stayed. Initial probes confirmed that the fire originated in the basement before spreading to the crowded upper floors.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant ordered a magisterial inquiry and assured strict action against those responsible. The state government announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased.
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