North Goa’s Ban On Fireworks Inside Nightclubs Isn’t A First. Over 20 Bars In Area Are Facing Legal Trouble

Days after at least 25 people were killed in a fire at Birch by Romeo Lane in Arpora, the North Goa administration has banned the use of fireworks inside hotels, nightclubs, and other tourist establishments.

The announcement comes after it was revealed that the blaze at Birch was triggered by the use of electric fireworks during a dance performance. But this is not the first time nightclubs in North Goa have been found violating rules.

Despite crackdowns by authorities, clubs in areas of North Goa like Vagator, Calungate, Anjuna, Arpora, and Baga have been frequently found violating regulations.

Many clubs in the area faced penalties for playing loud music after 10 PM. A total of 21 clubs in Vagator and Anjuna are facing FIRs and court cases since October 2024. These violations continue to be monitored by the high court.

Clubs have also constructed buildings in eco-sensitive areas and salt pans without proper licenses and no objection certificates. This results in demolition orders that are often ignored or stayed.

Many clubs have flouted fire safety norms, constructing narrow access roads in violation of building codes, and discharging sewage into rivers.

Authorities have taken actions such as banning fireworks and pyrotechnics in hotels and nightclubs, sealing properties, and repeatedly demolishing shacks such as Vagator’s Romeo Lane.

Pollution boards have conducted checks on the clubs. Panchayats have issued demolition notices, and police have registered cases as well. But locals say that clubs often resume operations soon because there is little enforcement of rules.

Public Interest Litigations (PILs), demanding investigations into negligence and asking that unsafe venues be shut down, have been filed in the high court.

FIRs have been filed against several clubs for noise violations. In Anjuna and Vagator, 21 clubs, including notable names like 9 Bar Club and Circus X Namas’ Cray Experiences, are facing legal action.

Several establishments have received demolition orders or been sealed for illegal constructions. This includes Birch by Romeo Lane, Mango Tree in Vagator, as well as Dream Beach and Disco Valley.