A fire at a popular nightclub in India’s Goa state has killed 23 people, with tourists among the dead and an investigation ordered into the cause.
GOA: At least 23 people were killed in a fire at a popular nightclub in the west Indian state of Goa early on Sunday.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed the death toll after visiting the scene in Arpora in North Goa district.
“Today is a very painful day for all of us in Goa,” Sawant wrote on social media platform X.
He said an inquiry has been ordered into the incident.
“Those found responsible will face most stringent action under the law,” Sawant added.
The blaze broke out around midnight, according to officials cited by the Press Trust of India news agency.
Sawant told journalists that “three to four” tourists were among the dead.
Three victims died from burn injuries, while the others succumbed to suffocation.
Firefighters and police conducted rescue efforts through the night.
Local media, citing police, reported the fire is suspected to have been started by a “cylinder blast” but said further investigation is required.
Local legislator Michael Lobo said officials would conduct a fire safety audit at similar venues.
Goa attracts millions of tourists annually with its beaches and nightlife.
Fires are common in India due to poor building practices and lax safety standards.
In May, a fire killed 17 in Hyderabad. A month earlier, a hotel blaze in Kolkata killed at least 15.
Last year, 24 died in a fire at an amusement park arcade in Gujarat.
