Devastating Goa Nightclub Fire: 25 Dead at Birch by Romeo Lane Due to Safety Violations and Limited Access

A senior fire official reported that narrow access routes significantly hampered emergency response efforts to reach the nightclub.

Multiple photographs have emerged showing the devastated remains of 'Birch by Romeo Lane' following a catastrophic fire that tore through the establishment early Sunday morning, resulting in 25 fatalities. Authorities have confirmed identification of all victims, comprising 20 staff members and five tourists.

According to officials, the explosion was reportedly so intense that flames consumed the entire structure within seconds, providing minimal opportunity for occupants to evacuate safely.

'Birch By Romeo Lane' is situated near the Arpora River backwaters and features a restricted entry and exit point. The venue markets itself as an "island club" and is only accessible from the main road via narrow pathways.

These constricted lanes proved problematic during the emergency as fire engines were unable to access the club directly and had to be stationed approximately 400 metres away.

A high-ranking fire officer informed PTI that the limited accessibility created substantial delays in firefighting operations. He indicated that numerous deaths resulted from asphyxiation when victims became trapped in the smoke-filled environment.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated that such a disaster is unprecedented in Goa's history. "From my preliminary inquiry, it appears the fire originated on the upper floor. Due to the extremely congested doorways, some individuals managed to escape, but once the blaze intensified, others were unable to exit. Many who retreated to the underground area perished from suffocation because of inadequate ventilation," he explained.

The nightclub has been temporarily sealed, and authorities are currently interrogating the owners and management. Initial investigations suggest the establishment had failed to comply with mandatory fire safety regulations.