**At Least 14 Infants Killed in Islamabad Hospital Fire**
Islamabad, Pakistan – A tragic fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad claimed the lives of at least 14 infants on Wednesday morning. The fire, which reportedly broke out around 7 a.m. local time in the hospital’s mother and child health ward, has raised serious concerns regarding safety standards in public healthcare facilities in the country.
Local media outlets, including Geo TV, reported that the blaze was likely caused by a fault in the air conditioning system. The fire erupted on the third floor of the hospital, where 16 newborns were present at the time. While 15 fatalities were initially reported, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's office later confirmed that the death toll stood at 14, with one infant successfully rescued from the flames.
Witnesses outside the hospital described the chaotic scene as ambulances rushed to the facility. Parents of the victims expressed their grief and frustration. Javeria, a mother who lost her newborn, was seen pleading for justice, stating, “Give me my child.” Another parent, Mudasir, echoed her sentiments, highlighting the lack of fire safety measures in the ward. He noted that all but one door of the ward were shut at the time of the incident, which severely hindered escape routes.
The PIMS hospital is a major public healthcare provider in Islamabad, serving a city population of approximately 1.1 million. However, it has faced criticism in the past for being under-resourced and mismanaged. Government healthcare in Pakistan is subsidized, but many facilities struggle to meet the demands of the population, leading to tragic incidents like this one.
In the wake of the fire, Prime Minister Sharif has directed authorities to launch an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The ward where the fire occurred has been cordoned off as part of the inquiry process.
As the investigation unfolds, the incident has sparked a broader conversation about the state of healthcare infrastructure in Pakistan, particularly concerning safety protocols in hospitals. The tragedy is among the deadliest hospital fires in recent years, drawing attention to the urgent need for reforms in public health facilities to ensure the safety and well-being of patients.
No further comments have been made by hospital officials or local authorities regarding the incident at this time. The community continues to mourn the loss of the young lives, as families seek answers and accountability for this devastating event.