THE GOAN | MAPUSA
The worst fears of locals appear to be coming true, with nightclubs that were recently sealed for failing to obtain mandatory fire safety clearances now moving swiftly to resume operations.
Within days of being sealed for serious fire safety lapses, a couple of nightclubs have written to the district Collector seeking de-sealing of their premises, claiming they have since complied with fire department requirements and obtained the mandatory Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC).
Sources in the administration confirmed that applications for de-sealing have been received; however, the clubs have failed to attach the requisite documentary proof issued by the fire department along with their requests.
Six nightclubs – Clara and Salud at Ozran, Vagator, Mayan Beach Club, Diaz, Club Goya and Café CO2 – were sealed by a joint enforcement and monitoring committee following inspections that revealed grave deficiencies in fire prevention systems, emergency preparedness and in some cases, structural instability.
The speed with which the fire NOCs were allegedly obtained has raised serious questions among locals and activists, who are demanding clarity on whether due procedures and inspections were followed before issuing the clearances.
“What we had foreseen is coming true,” said Jawish Moniz, a Vagator resident who has been actively opposing alleged illegalities in the area.
“The real violations are CRZ infringements, illegal construction and misuse of GCZMA permissions. No action is taken on these core issues. Sealing the clubs for lack of fire NOC is an easy way out, because the NOC can be obtained in no time and business resumes,” he added.
Activist and noise-pollution campaigner Desmond Alvares echoed similar concerns, stating that fire safety is only one of several violations.
“Many of these clubs do not have valid construction licences or other mandatory permissions. Goa lacks a comprehensive club policy, and until such a policy is in place, these illegalities will continue,” he said.
An official from the district administration, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the Collector has a 15-day window to examine the applications and take a decision.
“De-sealing will be considered only after verifying all required permissions and compliance reports. No decision will be taken in haste,” the official said.
The issue assumes significance in the backdrop of the recent tragic fire incident at Birch by Romeo Lane in Arpora and the High Court’s suo motu intervention into the functioning of illegal nightclubs in Goa.
Officials, however, are also expected to face intense pressure with the peak tourism season underway.
Whether public safety concerns or tourism-driven pressures will prevail remains to be seen as the administration weighs its next move.
