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New Delhi: A video circulating online has captured the precise moment a massive blaze erupted inside the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa. Sources say the footage was shot from the club’s first floor by a tourist present at the time. Frequent visitors have confirmed that the visuals align perfectly with the club’s layout, and eyewitnesses have validated the clip as authentic.
The video shows a performer dancing on stage when flames suddenly appear inside the crowded venue. The music cuts off immediately as panic breaks out. People can be heard shouting “aag lag gayi!” (a fire has broken out) while rushing toward the exits. Within seconds, the area fills with smoke, and chaos ensues as people struggle to escape.
The fire, which ignited late on Saturday night, resulted in the deaths of 25 people—including four tourists and 14 staff members. According to Goa Police, six individuals are currently injured and receiving medical care, while the identities of seven victims are still being verified.
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire. Police and fire department teams are inspecting the site and reviewing all possible factors.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident. He stated that the club’s general manager has been arrested and an FIR has been registered against the owner. Officials will probe whether the establishment complied with fire safety rules and construction standards.
“We need to know what permissions were taken and who granted them,” Sawant told ANI, stressing that anyone responsible will face severe consequences.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with CM Sawant to seek a comprehensive update on the situation. He also announced financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of those who lost their lives and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
In a post on X, PM Modi described the tragedy as “deeply saddening” and conveyed his wishes for the swift recovery of the injured.
