Islamabad, Pakistan – A devastating fire broke out at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), one of the largest state-run hospitals in the country, claiming the lives of at least 15 infants. The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday morning in the hospital’s gynaecology ward, which was housing newborns at the time. According to local broadcaster Geo TV, the fire was reportedly triggered by a fault in the air conditioning system, which quickly spread through the ward, creating a hazardous and chaotic situation.
The fire started around two hours ago, and emergency response teams, including firefighters and rescue personnel, were promptly dispatched to the scene. “Cooling operations” are currently underway, officials confirmed. According to initial reports, there were 16 newborns in the ward when the fire broke out, and tragically, only one infant could be rescued. The hospital administration and local authorities have yet to release an official statement confirming the exact number of casualties, but the loss of young lives has sent shockwaves across the nation.
Eyewitnesses and hospital staff described scenes of panic and grief as parents and relatives rushed to the hospital, desperately seeking information about their children. The blaze is believed to have originated from a short circuit in the air conditioning unit, although an official investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause and circumstances leading to the tragedy. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other political leaders have expressed deep sorrow over the incident and have called for a thorough inquiry into the matter.
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The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences is a major healthcare facility in the capital, serving thousands of patients, including vulnerable newborns and mothers. The incident raises serious concerns about fire safety protocols and maintenance standards in government-run hospitals. Authorities have assured that all necessary measures are being taken to prevent such incidents in the future, and that the families of the victims will be provided with compensation and support. This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as rescue and investigation efforts continue.
