Pakistan hospital fire kills 15 newborns in Islamabad nursery, as authorities launch an investigation into the deadliest blaze to hit the country’s healthcare system in recent memory.
The fire broke out in the children’s ward at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Hospital in Islamabad on Wednesday, according to local media reports. Geo News, citing hospital officials, said the nursery housed 16 newborns at the time of the incident, and only one was rescued.
Officials said the fire started after an air conditioner compressor exploded in the nursery, causing a blaze that quickly engulfed the ward. Firefighters extinguished the flames and were carrying out cooling operations at the site, the outlet reported.
The tragic incident has sparked nationwide grief and outrage, with many questioning the safety standards at the country’s premier medical institution. PIMS is one of Pakistan’s largest hospitals, serving millions of patients annually.
Authorities have ordered an inquiry into the fire, and the hospital administration has been asked to provide a detailed report. The Ministry of Health has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and promised strict action against those found negligent.
The Pakistan hospital fire is the latest in a series of deadly blazes in the country, highlighting the urgent need for improved fire safety measures in public buildings. In 2012, a fire at a garment factory in Karachi killed over 250 workers, and in 2021, a fire at a hospital in Karachi killed at least 11 patients.
The tragedy has also raised questions about the lack of fire safety equipment in hospitals, particularly in neonatal units where fragile infants are most vulnerable. Experts say that hospitals must install smoke detectors, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems, and conduct regular drills to ensure staff are prepared for emergencies.
In the aftermath of the Pakistan hospital fire, the government has announced that it will conduct a comprehensive review of fire safety protocols in all public hospitals across the country. Prime Minister has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and assured that the government will bear all medical expenses of the injured.
Meanwhile, anguished relatives gathered at the hospital, demanding accountability for the deaths. Many said they were not informed of the fire until hours after it had been controlled, raising concerns about the hospital’s crisis communication.
The sole survivor, a newborn, is reported to be in stable condition and is being treated at another facility. The infant’s family has been contacted, and they are said to be in shock.
This Pakistan hospital fire serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the critical need for safety in healthcare settings. As the nation mourns, officials must ensure that such a devastating incident is never repeated.
Source: Al Jazeera