Fire at popular India nightclub kills 23, Goa officials say
A fire at a nightclub in Arpora’s Birch by Romeo Lane, North Goa, killed 23 people around midnight on December 6-7, 2025, triggered by a gas cylinder explosion in the kitchen.
Most victims died from suffocation, with three succumbing to burns; they included 14-19 staff (mainly kitchen workers in the basement), four tourists, and at least three women. The fire spread rapidly, trapping those below ground, and was contained after rescue operations involving police, firefighters, and ambulances. About 50 others were injured and treated at Goa Medical College in Bambolim.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant called it a “profoundly sorrowful” day, visited the site, and ordered a detailed probe into fire safety violations and potential negligence. He vowed strict action against the club management and officials, noting the venue operated without full permissions on former saltpan land despite prior demolition notices. Police chief Alok Kumar confirmed all bodies were recovered, with identification ongoing.
