Panaji/Dehradun, Dec 7 (NationPress) A significant fire incident at a nightclub in Arpora, Goa has raised alarms in Uttarakhand, with indications that some residents from the hill state may be among the casualties. Acknowledging the situation, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reached out to his Goa counterpart Pramod Sawant on Sunday to gather comprehensive details regarding the incident and the status of the victims.

The tragic blaze has resulted in over 20 fatalities, including four tourists and 14 staff members.

Officials reported that CM Dhami urged the Goa CM to promptly inform Uttarakhand authorities if any affected individuals were identified as residents of the state.

Additionally, CM Dhami requested guaranteed support for the families affected, including assistance with identification, medical care, compensation procedures, and all necessary formalities.

It is understood that CM Sawant assured CM Dhami that all affected individuals were receiving the required medical and administrative help, with the state machinery fully engaged.

CM Dhami has also instructed all relevant departments in Uttarakhand to vigilantly monitor the developments related to the fire.

He has directed officials to be prepared to offer extensive support to any confirmed Uttarakhand resident impacted by this tragic incident, which includes medical assistance, legal support, counseling, and other essential services.

The Uttarakhand government stressed its commitment to standing by the affected families and promised to act with utmost sensitivity and responsibility. State officials are in constant communication with Goa authorities and are receiving updates as they become available.

Moreover, CM Dhami stated that the state administration is on high alert and ready to respond promptly should it be confirmed that any Uttarakhand resident is involved.

Earlier on Sunday, President Droupadi Murmu expressed profound sorrow regarding the devastating fire that engulfed a popular club in North Goa, claiming at least 23 lives and injuring many others.

Offering her condolences to the victims' families, the President referred to the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy and prayed for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment.

In her message on X, she stated: "Deeply pained by the tragic fire incident in North Goa district resulting in the loss of precious lives. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. May they find strength during this difficult time. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his distress over the fire disaster and announced a compensation of ₹2 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased and ₹50,000 to the injured.

In a post on X, PM Modi expressed: "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. I spoke to Goa CM Dr Pramod Sawant about the situation. The State Government is providing all possible assistance to those affected."

On Sunday, CM Pramod Sawant ordered a magisterial inquiry into the fire tragedy, confirming that swift action would be taken against those responsible.

After visiting the site early in the morning to evaluate the damage and oversee rescue operations, Sawant informed NDTV that the nightclub's general manager has been arrested, and an arrest warrant has been issued against the club’s owner.

He assured the government would ensure accountability at every level and pledged strict punitive actions against anyone or any establishment found violating safety regulations. Additionally, the Chief Minister instructed local authorities to expedite support for the victims’ families and coordinate with hospitals treating the injured.