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Tragedy Strikes Hospital Nursery
A devastating fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad on Wednesday morning claimed the lives of 14 newborn babies, marking one of the country’s most tragic hospital disasters . The fire broke out around 6:54 AM in the nursery of the Mother and Child Hospital, where 15 infants were receiving care . A hospital spokesperson confirmed that only one baby was rescued, with the rest perishing in the blaze .
Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal stated that a malfunctioning air conditioner triggered the fire, which spread rapidly due to the presence of oxygen connections used for incubators . This caused the blaze to intensify, overwhelming the ward. Anguished parents have gathered at the hospital, with some reporting chaotic scenes and slow rescue efforts .
Government Response
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed “deep sorrow” and ordered an immediate inquiry into the incident . In a swift administrative action, Federal Health Secretary Aslam Ghauri was suspended and removed from his post . The Prime Minister has also summoned the Health Minister to Islamabad to assess the situation .
Official Statements
Investigation Underway
Authorities have formed a fact-finding committee, tasked with submitting a report within 24 hours . The committee will investigate the exact cause of the fire, the hospital’s fire-safety measures, and the effectiveness of the rescue operation .
