On 6 December 2025, a devastating fire occurred at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora during a dance party, resulting in the deaths of 25 people and injuries to 50 others. The fire began at approximately 11:45 p.m. IST and spread rapidly throughout the venue. Access to the club was via a narrow lane, complicating firefighting efforts and delaying rescue operations, which continued into the following morning.

Authorities reported that the fire originated around the kitchen area on the ground floor. Investigators suspected that burst electrical firecrackers triggered the blaze, which was further intensified by decorative dried palm leaves. Subsequent inquiries revealed multiple violations of government safety regulations by the nightclub, which had also been subject to ongoing litigation. Among the deceased, 20 were employees of the club, originating from various states across India.

In response, the Government of Goa ordered a formal investigation and initiated audits of all nightclubs in the region. The Goa Police arrested five individuals in connection with the incident and detained the local sarpanch of the panchayat where the club was located. The club’s owners, Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, reportedly fled to Thailand to evade arrest. The tragedy prompted renewed scrutiny of fire safety standards and regulatory enforcement in entertainment venues across the state.