A deadly fire at Birch by Romeo Lane in Goa’s Arpora killed 25 people in just minutes. Investigators now say a chain of violations, illegal pyroguns, a highly flammable roof and poor safety practices triggered the blaze. Authorities are tightening scrutiny on nightlife venues as the probe expands and key suspects are detained abroad after fleeing India.
What Caused the Goa Nightclub Fire?
Officials say the blaze likely began when pyrotechnics used during a belly dance show struck the club’s ceiling. The roof was made of bamboo, fibre and straw‑like materials that ignited almost instantly.
An eyewitness said, “It started when a belly dance performance was underway. The performers used some cold pyro sticks which leapt skywards and hit the thatched roof. Sparks and fumes appeared, and within minutes the whole place was burning.”
Police first thought a gas cylinder had exploded, but on‑site inspection pointed to fireworks equipment inside an enclosed space as the likely trigger.
Why the Goa Nightclub Fire Spread So Fast?
Several safety lapses worsened the situation:
- The flammable thatched roof caught fire instantly.
- Illegal pyroguns were used indoors.
- Stacks of alcohol inside helped fuel the blaze.
- Too few exits slowed evacuation.
- Narrow access lanes forced firefighting units to park far from the club.
- About 300 square metres in size, the club was packed, and many patrons could not escape quickly. Of the 25 deaths, 20 were employees, and five were tourists.
Fleeing the Country and Detentions
Delhi‑based entrepreneurs Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, co‑promoters of the club, left India just 90 minutes after the fire started. They flew to Phuket, Thailand, early the next morning and were later detained there at India’s request. Goa Police say they will be brought back to face charges, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder.
Their lawyer claimed they left because of a “vengeful government” and said they planned to open a restaurant in Thailand — a claim authorities dispute.
Goa Nightclub Fire: Arrests Connected to the Fire
Goa Police have arrested six people so far:
- Rajiv Modak – chief general manager
- Priyanshu Thakur – gate manager
- Rajveer Singhania – bar manager
- Vivek Singh – general manager
- Bharat Singh Kohli – linked to the club
- Ajay Gupta – co‑owner, currently remanded in custody
Ajay Gupta said he was a “sleeping partner,” but police suspect deeper involvement.
Illegal Operations and Local Officials
The nightclub reportedly lacked proper operating permission. Police are probing the village panchayat officials who issued the 2023 trade licence, including the panchayat secretary and sarpanch. Both sought anticipatory bail after missing a summons.
Goa’s Chief Minister warned that non‑cooperative officials could be arrested if they continue to evade questioning.
Government Response and Safety Crackdown
In the wake of the tragedy:
- Enforcement teams are inspecting major nightlife venues.
- At least three other establishments have been shut for safety violations.
- More closures are expected as violations are reported.
- Officials have also set compensation for victims: ₹5 lakh for families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.
Ongoing Probe and Future Steps
A high‑level panel, including fire services, forensic experts and the South Goa collector, has one week to submit a report. Investigators are examining structural flaws, safety lapses and regulatory oversights to prevent future tragedies.
