Deadly Fire at 'Birch by Romeo Lane' Nightclub in Goa Claims 25 Lives: Safety Regulations Questioned

New Delhi:

Flames, smoke, fireballs followed by an inferno - a video from the 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub in Goa, moments after a catastrophic fire erupted late Saturday, shows how a musical evening transformed into a horrifying nightmare that claimed 25 lives.

While authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause of the blaze, reports suggest fireworks during a musical performance may have ignited the fire.

Officials suspect the nightclub located in Arpora, approximately 25 km from Panaji, was operating without proper fire department clearance.

According to the establishment's Instagram account, the venue was hosting a 'Bollywood Banger Night' on Saturday. Viral footage shows a dancer performing to the popular Sholay hit 'Mehbooba Mehbooba' when flames first appeared on the ceiling. Shortly before this, fireworks had been ignited inside the nightclub to enhance the performance.

Among the 25 fatalities were 20 staff members and five tourists.

Police have filed a case of culpable homicide not amounting to murder, negligence, and actions endangering safety. Four nightclub staff members have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Authorities are now searching for property promoters Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has announced that a team from Goa has departed for Delhi to locate the Luthras, who operate venues in several cities. Two other Romeo Lane properties in Goa have been sealed following the incident.