General
At least 23 people have died after a fire at a popular nightclub in the tourist resort in the state of Goa in southwestern India on Saturday, officials said.
In a post on X early Sunday morning, Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, said he had visited the site of the “major fire” at a club in Arpora district in North Goa, adding that he has ordered an inquiry into the incident.
“Those found responsible will face the most stringent action under the law — any negligence will be dealt with firmly,” Prawant said.
General What else do we know about the fire?
The chief minister told reporters at the scene that “three to four” tourists were among the dead.
Prawant also said three people had died from burn injuries, with 20 others dying from suffocation.
According to Indian media reports, police believe most of the dead were employees of the nightclub.
Initial investigations suggest the fire started after a gas cylinder exploded in the kitchen, the Indian PTI news agency reported, citing the local police chief.
Every year, millions of tourists visit Goa, a former Portuguese colony on the Arabian Sea. It is known for its sandy beaches, tropical climate and vibrant nightlife.
Winter is the peak tourist season for Goa, India’s smallest state.
Edited by Dmytro Hubenko