Goa nightclub fire: The deadly fire that killed 4 tourists and 21 staff is considered to be a major lapse by the ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ authorities. The investigation into the fire found that the lack of basic fire safety measures and unauthorised hazardous activities significantly worsened the incident and contributed to the tragic loss of lives.
In a new development, it was revealed that the nightclub’s physical structure lacked basic safety measures, and the required licences were not in place. Police have booked Romeo Lane chairman Saurabh Luthra, club partners, managers and event organisers, with the FIR stating that the “restaurant was found operating without obtaining permissions/licences from the competent authorities”.
Building was ordered to be demolished
An Indian Express report states that the sarpanch of Arpora-Nagoa village panchayat, Roshan Redkar, alleged the structure was built without a construction licence. Quoting Redkar, the report mentioned a dispute between Luthra, the owner of Birch by Romeo Lane, and the landowner. There were also multiple complaints against Luthra regarding disputes with business partners. “After an inquiry, we issued a demolition notice following due process. However, the notice was stayed on appeal,” Redkar said.
What was the complaint?
In December 2023, Pradeep Amonkar and Sunil Divkar complained to the panchayat that buildings on two plots, including the one with the club, were illegal in an eco-sensitive area. They warned that the club was in an unstable structure built over water, which could collapse at any time and cause a serious accident, putting tourists’ lives at risk.
In April 2024, following an inquiry, the Arpora-Nagoa village panchayat declared the construction illegal and issued a demolition notice to Surinder Kumar Khosla, the property owner. He was asked to remove the unauthorised shops, restaurants, structures, and platforms within 15 days. However, on appeal to the Deputy Director of Panchayats, the demolition notice was stayed, allowing the club to continue operating.
