A nightclub fire in a popular Indian beach town on Saturday night has killed 23 people, including tourists.
Authorities told local media that the blaze broke out after a gas cylinder exploded in the kitchen of Birch, a restaurant and nightclub in North Goa.
The names of the victims are yet to be released, but Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant said at least three tourists were among those recovered from the building.
Responding on social media, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the blaze “deeply saddening”.
Authorities told local media that the blaze broke out after a gas cylinder exploded in the kitchen of Birch
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He wrote: “My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest.
“The state government is providing all possible assistance to those affected.”
Dr Sawant told reporters at the site of the fire that “three to four” tourists had lost their lives.
The other victims were identified as members of the venue’s kitchen staff, among them three women.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the blaze ‘deeply saddening’
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The Goa Chief Minister wrote on social media: “Today is a very painful day for all of us in Goa.
“A major fire incident at Arpora has taken the lives of 23 people.
“I am deeply grieved and offer my heartfelt condolences to all the bereaved families in this hour of unimaginable loss.
“I visited the incident site and have ordered an inquiry into this incident.
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Dr Pramod Sawant said at least three tourists were among those recovered from the building
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“Those found responsible will face most stringent action under the law – any negligence will be dealt with firmly.”
Birch nightclub and restaurant was hosting a Bollywood themed event at the time.
The blaze erupted at around midnight on Saturday.
The venue describes itself as a place for “exquisite taste and breath-taking views” on social media.
The nightclub is part of a portfolio of more than 60 venues owned by hospitality company Romeo Lane.
Goa draws millions of visitors each year, mostly from across India.
The number of holidaymakers from abroad visiting the beachside town has fluctuated in recent years.
In 2018, Britons accounted for 31 per cent of foreign visitors to Goa, but by 2022 that figure had fallen to just over 14 per cent.
