Digital Goa, Dec 8 – State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has directed all nightclubs, restaurants, bars, event venues and similar establishments in Goa to carry out an internal safety audit within seven days and keep the report ready for inspection by district authorities, fire services or SDMA-authorised teams. The advisory warns that non-compliance will lead to closure, suspension or cancellation of licences and prosecution under Section 51(b) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and other applicable laws. The directive follows the recent fire tragedy at a nightclub in Arpora, in which 25 people lost their lives. The SDMA has also instructed establishments to ensure strict compliance with fire, electrical, structural and emergency safety norms. Requirements include maintaining a valid fire NOC, adhering to authorised occupancy limits, preventing overcrowding, ensuring working alarms, detectors, sprinklers and extinguishers, using certified electrical systems and keeping emergency exits accessible with proper signage and lighting. The advisory further calls for regular staff training, evacuation drills incorporating NDMA-recommended escape measures etc.
