Hospital Fire in Islamabad Claims Lives of 14 Newborns
A tragic fire broke out early Wednesday at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad. The blaze occurred in a nursery for newborns, leading to the deaths of 14 infants, as reported by hospital officials and the government.
The nursery housed at least 15 babies when an air-conditioning unit compressor exploded at around 6:45 a.m., initiating the fire in the gynecology ward. Officials confirmed that one baby was rescued. Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal verified the number of casualties.
Firefighters responded swiftly, extinguishing the flames. Rescue teams then took over, conducting cooling operations, local media outlets reported. Chief Commissioner Suhail Ashraf mentioned that authorities were working closely with the affected families, ensuring their needs were addressed.
Investigation Launched
A multiagency fact-finding committee, appointed by the Islamabad district magistrate, was directed to provide a report within 24 hours. The committee’s responsibilities include investigating the fire’s origin, examining fire-safety measures, and assessing the emergency response.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed their condolences. Sharif labeled the incident involving children as a significant loss. He demanded a swift investigation. President Asif Ali Zardari called the deaths an irreparable loss and urged for accountability, emphasizing the necessity of proper fire-safety protocols in hospitals.
National Grief and Response
The fire has led to nationwide grief and shock. Distressed parents and relatives gathered at the hospital, voicing the need for answers regarding the fire’s cause and safety measures in the nursery. Mohammad Sami, a grieving parent, shared her loss, expressing uncertainty and sorrow after her baby’s recent birth and care in the affected nursery.
Hospital authorities assured families that the necessary procedures would allow for the release of the infants’ bodies. Health Minister Kamal proceeded to Islamabad from Karachi to oversee the investigation. He stated that contact with the families was ongoing, prioritizing their support and the return of their children’s bodies.