A late-night outing turned tragic for a family from Delhi. Around midnight at a popular nightclub in North Goa, a fierce fire tore through Birch by Romeo Lane. The blaze killed 25 people, including four from the same family. What began as a fun night ended in shock and sorrow.
What Happened in the Goa Nightclub: The Blaze and Its Victims
The fire broke out just after midnight inside the club in Arpora, a well-known nightlife spot. The venue included a dance floor, kitchen, and basement. According to investigators, flammable decorations and indoor fireworks triggered the blaze.
Among the deceased were mostly staff members working overnight. Many were trapped in the basement or kitchen area and died of smoke inhalation, not necessarily fire burns.
Five of the victims were tourists, four from Delhi and one from Karnataka. Among the Delhi group were three sisters and the husband of one sister. All 25 victims have been identified, including staff from different parts of India and abroad.
Why Escape Was Impossible: Safety Failures
The tragedy revealed multiple safety failures. The club reportedly lacked fire safety clearance. It had a thatched-style roof, narrow exit routes, and flammable decor, conditions that turned the club into a tinderbox.
When fire broke out, hundreds tried to flee, but many rushed down to the basement or kitchen, trapped by narrow exits and thick smoke. Rescue teams struggled because fire engines couldn’t reach the club easily; the site lies on a narrow lane.
Authorities called it one of the worst nightclub disasters in Goa’s history. They arrested several managers and initiated a full investigation, citing culpable negligence and illegal operations.
Who Lost Their Lives: A Delhi Family’s Horror
Among the tourists, a single Delhi family suffered a devastating loss. Three sisters, Anita Joshi, Kamla Joshi, and Saroj Joshi, and a brother-in-law, Vinod Kumar, died in the fire. The only survivor from that family was their sister Bhavna Joshi.
Their trip to Goa, meant to be a relaxing getaway, ended in tragedy. Families back home are now grappling with grief, trauma, and unanswered questions about safety.
Aftermath: Investigation, Arrests, and Accountability Demands
Soon after the fire, police registered an FIR against the club owners and managers. They have already arrested four senior staff.
A magisterial inquiry is underway to probe violations of safety norms, licensing fraud, and illegal operations. Officials also plan safety audits of other clubs and entertainment venues in tourist areas.
Many demand stricter fire-safety laws and better enforcement, hoping this tragedy serves as a wake-up call for all venues operating in India.
