In the wake of the recent fire incident in a nightclub in Goa, the state government on Wednesday announced a ban on firecrackers and similar activities across all hotels, pubs, nightclubs, and restaurants in the state. According to the order, the use of traditional firecrackers, electronic fireworks, and fire-based performances or fire games is now prohibited in hotels, pubs, nightclubs, and restaurants throughout Goa.
The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to prevent any repeat of such mishaps and to enhance public safety during the peak tourist season.
Strict action against violations, enhanced monitoring
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant today chaired a high-level meeting at the Mantralaya in view of the recent anxiety and unrest within the tourism ecosystem and was convened to strengthen safety standards and implement robust, future-ready mechanisms across Goa’s tourism sector.
Addressing the media after the meeting, the Chief Minister said that the government is taking every possible step to ensure that such incidents, such as the fire at Birch, Arpora, do not recur. He directed all departments and tourism stakeholders to put in place stringent preventive measures and to strengthen coordination as Goa moves into the busiest period of the year. The Chief Minister emphasised that all potential hotspots, including beach belts, waterfall zones, and areas with high visitor footfall, must be closely monitored, and only licensed and compliant operations should be allowed to function.
The Chief Minister stressed that fire and safety compliance in nightclubs, restaurants, and entertainment venues must be kept fully updated. Establishments serving liquor must operate strictly within authorised timings, and violations will result in cancellation of licences. He also instructed all tourism establishments, hotels, clubs, and nightlife venues to employ staff only after proper police verification. Visitors, meanwhile, have been advised to follow instructions issued by lifeguards at designated coastal areas. He further stated that Goa is the only state to have trained lifeguards deployed across its coastline, ensuring year-round safety for visitors.
He assured that with these coordinated measures, Goa is prepared to ensure a safe and smooth tourism season. He underlined that the safety and security of visitors remain the Government’s top priority, especially during the festive months.
Goa nightclub fire
The fire broke out around midnight at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, resulting in 25 deaths. The incident has led to increased scrutiny of safety systems at entertainment venues.
Meanwhile, the two main owners, Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, have fled to Phuket in Thailand. Interpol has issued a Blue Corner Notice for them, bringing international law enforcement into the search.
A lookout circular has also been issued against Surinder Kumar Khosla, a British national and co-owner of the nightclub, as efforts continue to ensure all responsible individuals are brought to justice.
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