Three from Assam die in Goa nightclub fire

Guwahati: Three people from Assam, who were working as staff members at a nightclub in Goa, died in a fire on Saturday night.The tragedy at the nightclub at Arpora claimed 25 lives, including 20 members of the staff and five tourists.The deceased have been identified as Rahul Tanti, Manojit Mal, and Digambar Patir. Tanti’s body has been handed over to his family, while the bodies of Mal and Patir have been preserved.The incident has put all pubs and bars across the state on hight alert, sparking concerns over fire safety and emergency preparedness.However, local businessmen highlighted the adequate fire safety measures in place at the city’s pubs and bars.Madhur Sharma, a local night pub owner, expressed a need to reassess safety protocols, including fire exits, alarm systems, and crowd management practices to prevent such disasters. “Safety must be the top priority, and the Goa tragedy is a reminder that nightclub owners cannot be complacent. Regular audits, staff training, and strict adherence to safety protocols are essential to protect patrons and employees,” Sharma said.

In recent years, nightclubs have become popular among Guwahati residents, with several people visiting these establishments on weekends.Rajeev Chetri, a senior employee of a lounge in the city, said safety standards are regularly scrutinised and proper guidelines are followed before the establishments are opened to customers. “We conduct routine checks of electrical systems, ventilation, emergency exits, and fire-suppression equipment,” he said.