Arpora, Goa | Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic fire that broke out at a restaurant-cum-club in Arpora, claiming 23 lives, including 20 men and 3 women. The incident, which occurred around midnight, has shaken the state and prompted strong reactions from leaders and citizens.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister wrote:
“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. Spoke to Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Ji about the situation. The State Government is providing all possible assistance to those affected.”
According to eyewitness accounts, a massive explosion was heard before the fire spread rapidly. A resident recalled, “When I was heading home, I heard an explosion. Later, ambulances arrived, and by the time we reached there, the incident had already taken place.” A nearby restaurant security guard also reported that the blaze erupted following a suspected cylinder blast.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant termed the incident a “very painful day” for the state and extended his condolences to the bereaved families. “The incident is very unfortunate for a tourism state like Goa,” he said, adding that the government has ordered a detailed inquiry. “The inquiry will examine the exact cause of the fire, and those found responsible will face the most stringent action under the law.”
BJP MLA Michael Lobo, who called the tragedy deeply disturbing, demanded a safety audit of all clubs in Goa. “Some victims were tourists, while most were locals working inside the basement of the restaurant. Most people died due to suffocation as they ran towards the basement,” he said. “Tourists have always considered Goa a safe destination, and such incidents must never happen again.”
Goa DGP Alok Kumar confirmed that the fire department, police teams, and ambulances reached the scene minutes after receiving the alert at 12:04 am. “The fire is now under control, and all the bodies have been recovered,” he said. “A full investigation is underway, and action will follow based on the findings.”
Emergency teams worked through the night to bring the situation under control and transfer the injured to nearby hospitals.
The tragic incident has highlighted safety concerns across Goa’s nightlife establishments, and authorities have assured strict measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.