14 Babies Die in Islamabad Hospital Fire
Fourteen babies died after a nursery fire at PIMS Hospital in Islamabad on Wednesday. The PIMS tragedy has prompted an investigation and demands for stronger safety measures.
Fire claims 14 lives
The blaze started on the third floor of the Mother and Child Hospital. Rescue teams received the call around 6:45am and reached the site within seven minutes.Six fire engines and four ambulances joined the operation. CDA firefighters and Capital Emergency Service teams worked to control the blaze.
Fifteen infants were inside the ward when flames spread. Fourteen suffered severe burns and later died. Rescue workers saved one child from the ward.Officials have offered different views about its cause. Health Minister Mustafa Kamal said an air-conditioning unit exploded. Minister Tariq Fazl Chaudhry said gas lines, plastic equipment and oxygen helped spread the flames.Investigators will now determine what caused the blaze. They will examine safety systems and emergency procedures.
Government orders inquiry
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered strict action after the deaths. He also suspended Health Secretary Aslam Ghori at an emergency meeting.A high-level committee will investigate the incident. Former interior secretary Shahid Khan will lead the panel. Establishment Secretary Nabeel Awan will serve as a member.Meanwhile, Islamabad’s district administration formed another fact-finding committee. CDA, police, IESCO, PIMS and emergency officials will join the panel. It must submit its report within 24 hours.
President Asif Ali Zardari and political leaders offered condolences. They called for a transparent investigation and protection for vulnerable patients.Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi ordered fire-safety checks at government hospitals. He directed officials to improve emergency training and conduct practical drills.The PIMS tragedy has raised concerns about hospital safety. Authorities must address safety gaps, ensure accountability and prevent similar losses. Families deserve clear answers and stronger protection for patients.
