Safety Concerns Loom Over Goa’s Beach Shacks
Goa’s famous beach shacks are adored for their laid-back atmosphere and stunning views, but they come with a serious risk: fire hazards. These temporary structures, often made from bamboo, wood, and other flammable materials, have raised alarms about the safety of both customers and workers.
Many shacks have interiors filled with plastic chairs, fabric decor, and wooden panels, which can easily catch fire. This risk is heightened by strong coastal winds that can quickly spread flames, especially in crowded areas where shacks are built close together.
The danger is worsened by issues like poor electrical wiring, overloaded circuits, and kitchen appliances used in makeshift setups. Additionally, the presence of LPG cylinders and cooking oils contributes to the fire risk. Fire trucks often face difficulties accessing these beach locations, as sandy paths can impede their response time during emergencies.
According to a shack operator involved with the Shack Owners Welfare Society, while some establishments adhere to safety guidelines, not all do. “Shacks are open, allowing people to evacuate quickly. However, despite advising operators, some refuse to implement safety measures,” they noted.
Recent incidents have highlighted these fire risks. In April, six shacks in Arambol were destroyed by a fire, which officials believe was caused by a short circuit. Local authorities pointed out that the narrow road made it hard for fire services to reach the scene in time, with one truck getting stuck in the sand.
A fire technical assessment found that materials like wooden panels and plastics can fuel fires quickly. In another case, a beach resort in Ashvem burned down without possessing a fire department’s no objection certificate (NOC).
In December 2025, a restaurant on the beach called ‘Jamming Goat’ caught fire early in the morning, resulting in substantial damages of around ₹10 lakh. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but firefighters suspected an electrical issue contributed to the blaze, and the establishment lacked proper firefighting measures.
Tragically, a fire at the Arpora nightclub that same month claimed the lives of 25 people, including tourists and staff, prompting increased scrutiny of fire safety in coastal areas. Cruz Cardozo, president of the Shack Owners Welfare Society, remarked, “The fire department conducts inspections regularly and has tightened regulations.”
Authorities have since shut down establishments like ‘Cape Goa’ at Cabo de Rama, discovering unsafe wiring, inadequate kitchen facilities, and numerous obstructing LPG cylinders.
Fire safety regulations mandate that all beach shacks and similar venues must obtain a fire NOC and display it visibly, pass electrical and LPG safety checks, and maintain operational firefighting equipment. Storage of LPG cylinders must be done upright in ventilated areas away from heat sources.
Operators are making efforts to improve safety measures. Cardozo shared, “We educate our staff on using fire extinguishers. I’ve installed water pumps and have AFO Fire Balls that can quickly extinguish flames.”
Stakeholders emphasize the importance of regular inspections, especially during the busy tourist season, to ensure safety measures are not only a reaction to disasters but a proactive step to prevent them.
