What Did PM Modi Say About the Goa Fire Tragedy?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Prime Minister Modi has expressed sorrow over the fire tragedy.
- 25 lives have been lost, including tourists and staff.
- Financial aid of Rs 2 lakh for families and Rs 50,000 for the injured has been announced.
- The fire is suspected to have been caused by a cylinder explosion.
- Rescue operations are ongoing as investigations begin.
New Delhi, Dec 7 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his sorrow regarding the tragic fire incident in Goa's Arpora on Sunday. He has declared an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
The fire at Birch by Romeo Lane has resulted in the loss of 25 lives, including 4 tourists and 14 staff members, while the identities of 7 victims are still pending confirmation. Six individuals are currently receiving treatment for their injuries.
In a statement on X, PM Modi expressed, "The fire incident in Arpora, Goa, is extremely tragic. My heartfelt condolences go out to those who have suffered the loss of loved ones. I wish a swift recovery for the injured. I have spoken to Goa's Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant, regarding the circumstances. The State Government is extending all necessary support to the affected individuals."
According to the Prime Minister's Office, "An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF will be allocated to the families of each deceased victim, while the injured will receive Rs. 50,000."
The blaze began around midnight at Birch by Romeo Lane, a club popular with crowds due to its location near one of Goa’s most visited beaches.
Law enforcement officials suspect that the fire was ignited by a cylinder explosion within the venue.
It is believed that the sudden explosion provided minimal time for those inside, many of whom were staff, to escape.
Firefighters from various stations responded promptly, managing the flames well into the early hours of Sunday.
Rescue operations continued until dawn, as teams searched through the wreckage for survivors and worked to extinguish lingering hotspots.
Authorities have confirmed that many of the deceased were employees present at the club during the incident. Senior officials, including the Director General of Police, arrived promptly to oversee rescue and relief efforts.
Investigations are currently in progress, with further details expected soon.