Goa: 23 killed in major fire at restaurant-cum-club in Arpora
Panaji (Goa) [India], December 7 (ANI): At least 23 people were killed after a major fire broke out at a restaurant-cum-club in Arpora around midnight on Sunday, officials said.
The blaze was reported shortly after 12 am, prompting an immediate response from the police, fire brigade, and emergency medical teams. The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals, while authorities worked through the night to bring the situation under control.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant called it a “very painful day” for the state and expressed deep grief over the tragedy. He visited the site and extended condolences to the bereaved families, stating that a detailed inquiry had been ordered.
“This is a very painful day for all of us in Goa. A major fire incident at Arpora has taken the lives of 23 people. I am deeply grieved and offer my heartfelt condolences to all the bereaved families in this hour of unimaginable loss,” the Chief Minister said in a post on X.
Sawant added that the investigation will examine the exact cause of the fire and determine whether fire safety norms and building rules were followed. “Those found responsible will face the most stringent action under the law. Any negligence will be dealt with firmly,” he said.
Earlier, speaking at the site, Sawant described the incident as “very unfortunate” for a tourism state like Goa and emphasised strict action against anyone operating illegally.
Goa DGP Alok Kumar confirmed that the police control room received the alert at 12:04 am. “Police, fire brigade, and ambulances were rushed to the spot immediately. The fire is under control and all bodies have been recovered. The total death count is 23. We will investigate the cause of the incident and take action based on the findings,” he said.
Authorities have begun a detailed investigation into the cause of the fire. Officials said efforts are underway to provide medical support to the injured and assistance to the families of the victims.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the fire mishap in Arpora, calling the incident “deeply saddening” and conveying his support to the affected families.In an X post, the Prime Minister said, “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.” (ANI)
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