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Goa Nightclub Fire Report Cites Illegal Salt-Pan Site, No Licence and Safety Failures

The report’s release identifies systemic lapses, triggering arrests, suspensions and a wider criminal probe.

Overview

  • The magisterial inquiry, made public on December 31, finds Birch by Romeo Lane was erected in the middle of a protected salt pan where construction is not permitted.
  • The club operated after its March 2024 trade licence lapsed, and the Arpora Nagoa panchayat failed to seal the premises despite the authority to do so.
  • The probe cites a police account that fireworks were conducted without proper precautions or equipment, with inadequate exits and safety gear contributing to 25 deaths.
  • Investigators noted alleged forgery and tampering in licensing documents, as well as repeated administrative lapses and ignored complaints over noise and parking.
  • Police have arrested eight people, including co-owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra deported from Thailand on December 17, and five officials have been suspended as cases proceed under multiple BNS sections.