At least 23 people killed in a devastating fire at popular nightclub in Goa's Arpora village. officials confirmed on Sunday. The blaze began around midnight after a gas cylinder exploded inside the establishment, according to local police reports cited by the Press Trust of India.
According to the Indian media reports that, several tourists and kitchen staff members were among the victims. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant described the incident as a "very painful day" for the state. He visited the scene and has ordered an investigation, promising strict action against those found responsible for any negligence.
Images circulating on social media depict rescue workers rushing injured individuals into emergency vehicles amid scenes of thick smoke and flames. Video clips show balls of fire billowing from the low-rise building as emergency responders work to contain the blaze.
According to Chief Minister Sawant, three to four tourists died in the incident, with three victims suffering severe burn injuries and others succumbing to suffocation. At least three of the deceased were women. Authorities have recovered all victims' bodies and confirmed that the fire is now under control.
A security guard working near the scene reported that the fire was caused by a gas cylinder explosion, describing a "massive explosion" prior to the outbreak of flames.
Modi's sorrow:
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi meanwhile expressed his sorrow over the incident, saying the “fire mishap in Arpora, Goa, is deeply saddening”.
“My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest,” he wrote on X.
