Hospital Fire Claims Lives of Newborns in Islamabad

A tragic fire erupted early Wednesday in the nursery of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, a major government hospital in Islamabad. The incident resulted in the deaths of 14 newborns, as confirmed by hospital officials and the government.

At least 15 babies were housed in the nursery when the air-conditioning unit compressor exploded around 6:45 a.m., leading to the devastating blaze. Hospital officials reported that at least one baby was rescued. Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal confirmed the tragic loss and stressed the urgency of investigating the incident.

Firefighters responded swiftly and managed to extinguish the flames. Local media reported that rescue teams commenced cooling operations immediately afterward. Islamabad Chief Commissioner Suhail Ashraf stated that the fire had been extinguished and authorities were in communication with the grieving families.

A multiagency fact-finding committee, appointed by the Islamabad district magistrate, is tasked with submitting a report within 24 hours. The committee will explore the fire’s origin and spread, examine the fire-safety measures in place, and assess the emergency response.

In response to the tragedy, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow. Prime Minister Sharif referred to the incident involving children as an ‘irreparable loss’ and called for an immediate investigation. President Asif Ali Zardari offered condolences and urged for accountability and the enhancement of fire-safety measures, especially in newborn care wards.

The country’s grief is palpable, with distressing scenes unfolding as heartbroken parents and relatives gathered at the hospital. Many are demanding answers regarding the nursery’s firefighting readiness and the cause of the fire. Affected parent Mohammad Sami, whose baby was in intensive care, voiced her anguish and uncertainty about accountability.

Health Minister Kamal announced plans to travel from Karachi to Islamabad to oversee the investigation personally. He stated that the director-general of health and the federal health secretary were already at the site. Officials are prioritizing support for the mourning families and ensuring the return of the infants’ bodies to their parents.