Arpora, Goa: At least 25 people have been killed after a fire broke out at a nightclub in Goa, India, according to the state police. The blaze reportedly started around midnight on December 6 local time.
The majority of the victims were kitchen staff, while three to four tourists are believed to be among the deceased. Social media footage showed emergency services lining up to assist the injured, some of whom were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, Goa’s Chief Minister, said that, “I am deeply grieved and offer my heartfelt condolences to all the bereaved families in this hour of unimaginable loss.” The Chief Minister later stated that he was “closely reviewing the situation arising from the tragic nightclub fire,” adding six additional people had been injured.
“All six injured persons are in a stable condition and are receiving the best medical care,” Dr. Sawant noted. Authorities worked through the night to bring the situation under control, while a strong security presence remained at the site, with the nightclub’s doors sealed and entry strictly prohibited.
“The fire was mainly concentrated around the kitchen area on the ground floor,” said Alok Kumar, Goa’s Director General of Police. Most of the bodies were found near the kitchen “suggesting that the victims were employed at the club,” Kumar added.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the fire as ‘deeply saddening’ and said he had spoken with Dr. Sawant. Modi also confirmed that the state government is providing full support to those affected by the incident.
Following a visit to the site, Dr. Sawant ordered an official inquiry to determine the exact cause of the nightclub fire. The investigation will assess whether fire safety norms and building regulations were followed. The CM emphasized that anyone found responsible for negligence will face the strictest legal action.
The Goa nightclub fire has left the state and the nation in mourning, highlighting concerns over fire safety standards at public venues.
MOST READ | Starbucks under fire as NYC Union strikes intensify tensions
