After Goa nightclub tragedy, fire-safety checks tightened in Bhubaneswar

The recent nightclub fire tragedy in Goa that claimed 25 lives has triggered heightened alert in Bhubaneswar, prompting the Fire Services and Excise Departments to move into action mode on Monday.

Also Read: Goa fire tragedy: 25 dead, President, PM Modi express deep grief over the incident

With Christmas and New Year’s Eve approaching—and the Capital City’s night-life scene expanding—authorities are determined to prevent any repeat of the Goa incident.

Officials have announced that every bar, pub, club and restaurant in the State Capital will undergo fire-safety inspections. Establishments operating without valid fire-safety clearance will be sealed, while the Excise Department has warned that licences will be cancelled if safety norms are ignored.

Teams have already carried out checks in areas popularly compared to Goa’s ‘Romeo Lane’. Fire Services personnel have been ordered by the DG to enter all nightlife venues and verify compliance.

A ten-day deadline has been set for submission of a complete fire-safety report. Equipment such as extinguishers, emergency exits and safety installations will all be verified.

Bhubaneswar has at least 155 licensed establishments, including 59 ON-shop bars, 87 bars and pubs, three clubs, and six beer parlours. Only a few of them allegedly possess adequate fire-safety systems, raising serious concerns ahead of festive crowds.

The Excise Department has issued a strict warning: any bar or pub operating without fire-safety clearance will lose its licence.

With just 23 days left for Christmas and Zero Night celebrations, the city expects packed dance floors and heavy footfall. Authorities aim to ensure that no lapse in safety leads to a disaster similar to Goa, stressing that celebrations must remain joyful—and safe.

“Establishments where there are provisions for around 50-100 people to sit together and eat or where different programmes are being conducted will be verified within the coming 10 days,” Director General of Fire & Emergency Services, Sudhanshu Sarangi, said.

“A report on the shortfalls will be reported to the establishments concerned. Accordingly, strong action will be taken against them,” the DG expressed.