A fire broke out in the newborn nursery of a major government hospital in Pakistan’s capital early Wednesday, resulting in the tragic death of 14 babies, as confirmed by hospital officials and government sources. The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad was home to approximately 15 newborns in the nursery when the fire started around 6:45 a.m. local time after an air-conditioning unit compressor exploded on the third floor of the hospital, according to statements from hospital staff and rescue personnel.
The blaze was contained within the nursery located in the gynecology ward, while the rest of the hospital remained unaffected, with no additional injuries reported, as stated by hospital authorities and eyewitnesses. TV footage showed rescue workers using ladders to access the area through shattered windows.
Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal verified the tragic loss of at least 14 infants. Dr. Aneeza Jalil, a hospital spokesperson, mentioned that one baby was rescued by a doctor, and the bodies of six babies have been returned to their families, with the remainder to be released shortly.
The devastating incident sparked shock and sorrow nationwide, prompting the deployment of police at the hospital as grieving parents and relatives gathered, some mourning while others sought accountability and explanations regarding the fire’s cause and the nursery’s firefighting preparedness.
Firefighters swiftly responded to extinguish the fire, and rescue teams initiated cooling operations at the scene, as reported by local media. Islamabad Chief Commissioner Suhail Ashraf later confirmed the fire was put out, and efforts were underway to support the affected families.
In response to the tragedy, an investigative committee was swiftly appointed by the Islamabad district magistrate to ascertain the cause of the fire, assess safety measures in place, and evaluate the emergency response within 24 hours. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed condolences and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation.
President Asif Ali Zardari extended his sympathies to the bereaved families, emphasizing the importance of identifying those accountable and ensuring stringent safety protocols in hospitals, especially in units caring for newborns. The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, a prominent public hospital in Islamabad, was recently in the spotlight for conducting a medical examination on incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan.