Goa Bans Firecrackers After Deadly Nightclub Fire

Goa Nightclub Fire Prompts Immediate Ban on Indoor Fireworks

A deadly fire at a Goa nightclub has triggered swift government action. Authorities have banned all fireworks inside tourist establishments in North Goa. The order comes just days after a blaze killed 25 people.

The fire broke out at the ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ club in Arpora around midnight on December 6. According to officials, preliminary reports suggest “electric firecrackers” ignited the tragic blaze. This new rule aims to prevent any similar future disasters.

Goa nightclub fire

New Safety Order Covers All Major Tourist Venues

The district administration issued the formal order on Wednesday. It uses powers under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. The ban is comprehensive and leaves no room for ambiguity.

It prohibits fireworks, sparklers, and pyrotechnics indoors. The rule also bans flame throwers and smoke generators. It applies to a wide range of establishments frequented by visitors.

This includes nightclubs, bars, and all restaurants. Hotels, guesthouses, and beach shacks are also covered. The order extends to temporary event structures and resorts.

Nightclub Owners Captured Abroad After Fleeing

In a related development, the nightclub owners were detained overseas. Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra fled to Thailand after the fire. Thai police captured them in Phuket, as reported by PTI.

Officials state the brothers booked flights just an hour after the fire started. They left India on an IndiGo flight early on December 7. Authorities were still fighting the blaze when they escaped.

The Goa Police sought help from the Central Bureau of Investigation. A Blue Corner Notice was issued to locate the brothers. Legal procedures to extradite them back to India are now underway.

This decisive response to the Goa nightclub fire highlights a major shift in tourist safety enforcement. The immediate ban reflects the severity of the incident. It serves as a stern warning to all venue operators across the region.

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What exactly caused the Goa nightclub fire?

Preliminary investigations point to “electric firecrackers” used inside the venue. These pyrotechnics ignited the deadly blaze that spread rapidly through the club.

Which areas does the new fireworks ban cover?

The ban covers all of North Goa district. It applies indoors at any tourist establishment, including hotels, shacks, and event venues.

Where were the nightclub owners found?

Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra were detained in Phuket, Thailand. They had fled India within hours of the fire starting.

What legal action is being taken against the owners?

Indian authorities are working to extradite them from Thailand. The Goa Police had requested a Blue Corner Notice through the CBI to facilitate their capture.

How many people died in the incident?

The fire claimed 25 lives. The tragedy occurred in the early hours of December 6 at the club in Arpora.

Is the fireworks ban permanent?

The order is a prohibitory rule issued under criminal procedure code powers. It remains in effect until officially rescinded by the district administration.