TRAGEDY/ Maternity ward engulfed in flames, 14 babies lose their lives

A tragic fire broke out in the maternity and newborn ward at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) hospital in Islamabad, where at least 14 babies lost their lives.

The flames broke out on the third floor of the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) unit, one of the hospital’s main wards. PIMS spokesperson Dr. Aneeza Jalil confirmed that 14 newborns died, while another baby was rescued.

Emergency teams immediately arrived at the scene, including fire trucks, ambulances, and specialized personnel. Authorities said at least 19 people were evacuated from the building, including 10 women, seven children, and two men.

Following the intervention, firefighters managed to bring the flames under control. Those who required medical assistance were taken for treatment, while some were transferred to intensive care units.

At the time the fire broke out, there were a total of 15 newborn babies in the ward. The cause of the fire remains unknown, while authorities have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Pakistani’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, expressed “deep sorrow and sincere regret” over the loss of lives and ordered an immediate investigation.

“Such a situation involving children is irreversible,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement, expressing condolences to the families of the babies who lost their lives.

PIMS is considered one of the largest public hospitals in Islamabad, while the Maternal and Child Health unit has a capacity of 156 beds.

The tragedy has once again raised concerns about fire safety in Pakistan.

The country has faced several serious incidents of this kind in recent years, while shortcomings in the implementation of building safety standards have repeatedly been raised as a major concern.

“KORÇA BOOM”