Tragedy / Fire at Islamabad Hospital Kills 15 Newborns

Islamabad, Aug 26: A horrific fire at Islamabad’s Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) claimed the lives of 15 newborn babies, turning the gynaecology ward into a scene of devastation. Local media, quoting hospital officials, reported that the blaze broke out early Wednesday morning, leaving only one infant rescued from the nursery while the rest perished in the flames.

Hospital authorities confirmed that 16 infants were inside the nursery when the blaze erupted. “Of the 16 infants, only one could be rescued from the affected area in time, while the remaining babies died in the blaze,” officials said.

Rescue sources told Geo TV that the fire began around 6:45 a.m. after an air‑conditioner compressor reportedly exploded. Firefighting teams rushed to the hospital and managed to bring the flames under control, continuing cooling operations to prevent reignition.

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According to the district administration, 14 babies were completely burnt in the fire, which broke out on the third floor of the Mother and Child Health ward. Six fire brigade vehicles and four ambulances were deployed as part of the emergency response.

The incident has raised serious concerns about safety arrangements in the hospital, particularly in wards housing vulnerable newborns. The district administration has constituted an enquiry committee headed by the additional deputy commissioner to investigate the circumstances.

Officials said the enquiry will determine what caused the fire, assess the emergency response, and establish accountability. “Further details regarding the incident and the findings of the enquiry committee are awaited,” they added.

The tragedy has shocked the nation, highlighting the urgent need for stronger safety measures in healthcare facilities.

(IANS)