Goa inferno: ‘Island’ club with narrow path leading to it made firefighting a challenge

PANAJI: Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub at northern Goa’s Arpora located approximately 16km from Panaji, was constructed on a salt pan with inadequate safety measures, highlighting significant infrastructure concerns following a Saturday night fire incident that claimed 25 lives.The establishment, marketed as Goa’s first island club, faces scrutiny over its safety protocols and building design. The nightclub is positioned in the middle of a salt pan, surrounded by water, with its entrance 50m from the main gate.While two entry points exist, typically only one narrow lane remains accessible.The club’s basement features a thick concrete structure with a permanently closed exit. It houses the kitchen, changing room, and bar counter without proper ventilation, accessed by two narrow staircases.

During rescue operations, emergency responders encountered difficulties accessing the basement area due to the narrow passageways, particularly concerning given the high number of kitchen staff working in the space.The first floor of the club, designated for live performances and club events, is enclosed by thick glass with minimal ventilation. While equipped with two exits, only one was operational during the incident. The venue regularly hosts various events attracting over 200 attendees on the first floor, which features open seating arrangements.”Of the three exits, only one was open at the time of the rescue operation,” said Nitin Raiker, director of fire and emergency services.The club’s limited accessibility is further compounded by its isolated location on the salt pan, with a single narrow lane typically serving as the sole access point to the night club.