Following the tragic fire at a nightclub in Arpora that claimed 25 lives, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has announced that tourist establishments failing to meet fire safety standards will face licence cancellation and possible sealing of their premises.
Addressing the media, CM Sawant emphasized that a government-formed fire safety audit committee has already begun inspecting tourism establishments across the state. “If the committee finds that any establishment is non-compliant with fire safety regulations, their licences will be revoked, and the premises sealed,” he stated.
The Chief Minister stressed that all tourism stakeholders must strictly follow safety norms to prevent recurrence of such incidents. Specific safety measures will also be enforced for water sports and adventure activities. Additionally, establishments have been instructed to prevent conflicts between employees and visitors, and strict action will be taken against touts.
The announcement follows the demolition of Romeo Lane, the Vagator beach shack owned by brothers Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, who also operate Birch in Goa, the site of the fatal fire. The demolition commenced Tuesday evening under CM Sawant’s directive. Meanwhile, the Luthra brothers have filed for anticipatory bail in Delhi’s Rohini Court to avoid arrest.
The Goa government has formed a committee to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, signaling a firm stance on safety and accountability in the tourism sector.
