At least 23 people have been killed in a fire at a popular nightclub in the coastal region of Goa, India, local officials say.
The majority of victims are believed to be staff at the club in Arpora, North Goa, but tourists are among the dead.
Police believe a gas cylinder exploded in the club's kitchen causing the blaze to rip through the venue at midnight on Saturday, local time.
Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant expressed his condolences, stating, 'Today is a very painful day for all of us in Goa.'
The fire was mainly concentrated around the kitchen area on the ground floor, according to Shri Alok Kumar, Goa's Director General of Police. 'The fire occurred around midnight. It has now been brought under control.'
Most of the bodies were found around the kitchen, indicating that the victims were employed at the club, Mr. Kumar added.
Local reports suggest the fire broke out at Birch by Romeo Lane, a club situated near one of Goa's popular beaches.
Rescue services continue their operations, with reports indicating that three individuals succumbed to burn injuries, while others suffered from suffocation.
Three to four tourists were reported to have died; their nationalities and ages remain unspecified.
A formal inquiry into the cause of the fire has been initiated, with assurances from Dr. Sawant that those found responsible will face stringent legal consequences.
'I am deeply grieved and offer my heartfelt condolences to all the bereaved families in this hour of unimaginable loss.'
Goa, a former Portuguese colony on the Arabian Sea, is known for its vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches, and annual influx of millions of tourists.
