The magisterial inquiry into the devastating fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, which claimed 25 lives on December 6, has submitted a detailed report to the Goa government, outlining systemic failures and recommending corrective measures. The inquiry report, which spans 108 pages along with more than 500 pages of annexures and witness statements, presents 60 specific recommendations aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Officials familiar with the report said it provides a department-wise assessment of lapses and prescribes actions required to strengthen fire safety compliance, regulatory oversight, and inter-departmental coordination.
Inquiry Details Lapses Across Multiple Departments
According to senior government officials, the report identifies shortcomings across various departments responsible for licensing, inspections, fire safety enforcement, and crowd management. Each recommendation is mapped to a specific authority, ensuring clarity on accountability and implementation responsibilities.
The inquiry highlights the need for stricter enforcement of fire safety norms, improved monitoring of entertainment venues, and periodic safety audits to ensure compliance with existing regulations.
Extended Timeline Due to Extensive Scrutiny
The state government had initially given the inquiry committee one week to complete the investigation and submit its findings. However, due to the volume of documentation involved and the need to record detailed statements from multiple stakeholders, the committee sought additional time and submitted the report after a fortnight.
Officials said the extended timeline allowed for a more thorough examination of licensing records, inspection reports, emergency preparedness protocols, and eyewitness testimonies.
District Collector Led the Inquiry Process
The magisterial inquiry was headed by North Goa District Collector Ankit Yadav, who oversaw the examination of documentary evidence and the recording of statements from officials, witnesses, and other concerned parties. The annexures include inspection reports, correspondence between departments, and procedural records related to the nightclub’s operations.
The inquiry process aimed to establish factual clarity, identify procedural failures, and recommend institutional reforms rather than assign criminal liability, which remains the subject of separate police investigations.
Focus on Preventive Frameworks and Enforcement
The report places strong emphasis on preventive measures, including standardised inspection protocols, digitisation of licensing systems, real-time compliance monitoring, and enhanced coordination between fire services, local authorities, and law enforcement agencies.
It also calls for capacity building within enforcement agencies, regular training programmes, and public awareness initiatives to improve compliance with safety regulations in high-footfall venues.
Government to Examine Recommendations for Implementation
State government officials have indicated that the recommendations will be examined in detail, with relevant departments tasked with preparing action plans for implementation. The findings are expected to shape future policy decisions, regulatory reforms, and enforcement strategies related to public safety.
The Arpora fire tragedy has brought renewed focus on regulatory oversight and safety preparedness, with the inquiry report serving as a roadmap for systemic reform to ensure such incidents do not recur.