A devastating fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad claimed the lives of at least 14 newborn infants early Wednesday morning. The blaze, which erupted on the third floor of the Maternal and Child Health Ward, has sent shockwaves through the nation and prompted immediate action from the highest levels of government.
Early Morning Emergency Unfolds
The fire was first reported at approximately 6:54 am, with authorities suspecting a short circuit as the likely cause. Islamabad Chief Commissioner Sohail Ashraf Goraya confirmed the incident on social media, stating that rescue teams, police, and administrative officials rushed to the scene and successfully brought the blaze under control. However, the damage had already been done, with more than a dozen infants losing their lives in the tragedy.
Six fire brigade vehicles and four ambulances participated in the rescue and relief operation. Surviving children were subsequently shifted to the Intensive Care Unit for urgent medical attention. Professor Imran Sikandar, a hospital official, noted that the exact cause of the fire was still under investigation.
Government Response and Accountability
The federal government has moved swiftly to address the tragedy. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting to review the incident and expressed strong displeasure over the performance of relevant officials. In a decisive move, Federal Health Secretary Aslam Ghouri was suspended and removed from his post.
A high-level inquiry committee has been constituted to investigate the tragedy and determine responsibility. Former interior secretary Shahid Khan has been appointed to head the committee, with Secretary Establishment Dr Barrister Nabil Awan serving as a member. The prime minister has ordered immediate action and pledged that strict measures will be taken against those found responsible.
Health Minister Vows Strict Action
Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal confirmed the death toll and emphasized that an investigation would be conducted. He stated that those responsible would face strict action, adding that he himself would be held accountable if the inquiry found any fault on his part. Kamal noted that hospital staff had gone to call rescue services after the fire broke out, but the blaze spread rapidly despite operational fire-fighting equipment.
National Mourning and Condolences
The tragic incident has drawn condolences from across the political spectrum and international community. President Asif Ali Zardari expressed profound grief, calling the deaths an “extremely heartbreaking and irreparable loss.” Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar described the event as deeply saddening, while Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also expressed his sorrow.
The British High Commission in Pakistan offered its condolences, stating, “Our deepest condolences and thoughts are with the parents and families at this unimaginably difficult time.” The outpouring of sympathy underscores the profound impact of this tragedy on the nation.
Investigation Underway
An investigation committee headed by an additional deputy commissioner general has been formed to determine the cause of the fire. The committee includes the Director General of Capital Emergency Services, the Superintendent of Police City, the Assistant Commissioner I-9, and the Director General of the Capital Development Authority. Their findings will be crucial in establishing accountability and preventing similar incidents in the future.
As the nation mourns the loss of these innocent lives, questions remain about hospital safety protocols and emergency preparedness. The tragedy at PIMS serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of fire safety measures in healthcare facilities, particularly in wards housing the most vulnerable patients.
