Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) granted a 15-year consent to operate to the Birch nightclub at Arpora in April 2024 despite multiple complaints alleging serious violations.
In a written reply to a question raised by Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai, the Chief Minister stated that the nightclub, operating under the name Birch by Romeo Lane, was granted a ‘green category’ consent, valid until 2039.
The reply revealed that at least four complaints had been received against the establishment. These included allegations of illegal construction, sewage discharge, noise pollution and safety-related concerns. Despite these issues being on record, the pollution control board proceeded to grant long-term operational clearance to the nightclub.
The disclosure comes in the wake of the devastating fire at the Arpora nightclub last month, which claimed 25 lives and sparked widespread outrage over regulatory lapses and enforcement failures.
The opposition has demanded accountability from regulatory authorities, questioning how such a long-term clearance was issued to an establishment that had multiple complaints pending against it. The incident has also renewed calls for stricter scrutiny of nightlife venues, particularly with regard to safety, environmental compliance and building norms.
