Infants killed in hospital fire in Islamabad

A tragic fire broke out on Wednesday at approximately 7 a.m. at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad, resulting in the deaths of at least 14 infants. The blaze occurred on the third floor within the mother and child health ward. While Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed the death toll at 14, local broadcaster Geo TV reported 15 fatalities, noting that out of 16 newborns present, only one was successfully rescued. The cause of the incident remains under discussion, with reports citing either a fault in the air conditioning system or a blast within the unit, which Health Minister Mustafa Kamal attributed to oxygen presence facilitating the rapid spread of flames.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding the state-run healthcare system in Pakistan, which is frequently criticized for mismanagement, lack of resources, and overcrowding. Parents of the victims have publicly demanded justice, reporting difficulties in accessing the ward during the crisis. Prime Minister Sharif has ordered an immediate investigation into the disaster. The hospital ward has been cordoned off as authorities begin their assessment of the gutted, blackened site.