Rooftop bar inferno in Bhubaneswar raises questions on fire safety compliance after Goa nightclub tragedy

A major fire broke out at a rooftop bar in Satya Vihar in Bhubaneswar on Friday morning, raising serious concerns over fire safety compliance in commercial establishments across the city. The blaze gutted the entire structure of the bar within minutes, with flames and smoke visible from a considerable distance.

Five fire tenders were deployed to the spot, and after an intense firefighting operation lasting nearly an hour, the blaze was finally brought under control. Fire officials said the intensity of the flames was extremely high, making the operation challenging. 

An ambulance was also stationed at the site as a precautionary measure. However, it is yet to be confirmed whether any staff or customers were present inside the bar at the time of the incident.

Preliminary assessments suggest that an electrical short-circuit may have triggered the fire. Authorities are now investigating whether the bar had adequate fire safety mechanisms, including extinguishers, emergency exits, and functional electrical systems. Officials from the Fire Services Department indicated that the rooftop layout may have further complicated evacuation and firefighting efforts.

The incident comes barely weeks after the tragic fire at a nightclub in Goa, which resulted in multiple casualties and prompted national discussions on fire safety norms. The Bhubaneswar incident has reignited similar concerns, with questions being raised about the enforcement of mandatory safety audits, especially in high-footfall entertainment venues.

"At 9 o'clock, we received information about a fire breaking out in Satya Vihar. 7 fire tenders reached the spot and began efforts to extinguish the fire. Four teams and 30 officials are present at the spot...The cause of the fire could be a short circuit... We will take action and investigate in accordance with the rules. There are no casualties," said Narayan Das, Deputy Fire Officer.

A local resident said, “The fire broke out at around 8.45 am. I spotted smoke emitting and informed the police and fire services. I also snapped the electricity connection by removing the main switch.”

Commenting on the matter, the bar owner said, “There are all fire safety arrangements. The fire broke out when the restaurant was closed. No one sustained any injuries in the mishap.”

Also Read: Major fire breaks out at bar in Bhubaneswar

A detailed inquiry has been initiated to examine violations, structural vulnerabilities, and compliance failures. Fire Services officials have also emphasised the need for strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent such catastrophic incidents in the future.