Deadly fire devastates Indian nightclub, claiming lives of 23 people, including tourists

A devastating fire erupted at a nightclub in Goa, one of Indias most visited resort destinations, resulting in the deaths of at least 23 individuals, including several foreign visitors, according to local authorities.

The incident reportedly occurred around midnight on Saturday in Arpora village, following a suspected cylinder explosion inside the club, the Press Trust of India (PTI) reported. While most victims are believed to have been staff working in the kitchen, Goas Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant, confirmed that three to four tourists were among those killed.

Goa, located on Indias western coastline, is renowned for its beaches and colonial Portuguese heritage, drawing hundreds of thousands of international tourists annually. In a statement posted on X, Sawant described the tragedy as a very painful day for the state, noting the loss of 23 lives in Arpora.

Social media footage showed emergency vehicles, including fire trucks and ambulances, responding swiftly to the scene. Injured individuals were transported to nearby hospitals, as rescue teams worked through the night to control the blaze. According to PTI, the majority of fatalities were caused by severe burns, with others succumbing to smoke inhalation.

An official investigation has been launched to determine the precise cause of the fire and to verify whether fire safety regulations and building codes had been observed, Sawant stated.

Indias Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, expressed his sorrow over the incident, calling it deeply saddening. He extended his condolences to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery for those injured.

Author: Maya Henderson