Arpora Nightclub Blaze Claims 25 Lives: Fireworks Blamed as Videos Go Viral, Safety Lapses Probed
A catastrophic fire ripped through Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, late Saturday, killing 25 people—20 staff and 5 tourists—mostly from suffocation in the smoke-filled venue. Preliminary probes point to fireworks during a Bollywood-themed event igniting wooden interiors, trapping patrons in an underground area lacking ventilation and exits.
Outrage Over Safety Gaps
Goa Police filed culpable homicide charges against owners Saurabh & Gaurav Luthra; CM Pramod Sawant ordered magisterial inquiry, fire audits across venues, and ₹5 lakh ex-gratia per family. Viral clips show flames erupting mid-performance to ‘Mehbooba Mehbooba,’ fueling demands for stricter clearances amid tourist season peak.
PM Modi expressed grief, spoke to CM; BJP MLA Michael Lobo highlighted procedural failures in the illegal setup.
Bollywood Buzz Continues
- Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar smashes ₹100 Cr India opening, ₹140 Cr worldwide in 3 days.
- Dhanush-Kriti Sanon’s Tere Ishk Mein holds steady past ₹100 Cr mark.
- December slate packed: Bull, Rambo upcoming.
The tragedy casts shadow over Goa’s party circuit even as Hindi films dominate screens nationwide.
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