New Delhi: A devastating fire at a government hospital in Pakistan's capital Islamabad claimed the lives of at least 15 newborn babies after an air conditioner compressor reportedly exploded inside the nursery ward on Wednesday morning.
The incident took place at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), one of the country's major government hospitals. The fire broke out in the gynecology and Maternal and Child Health (MCH) ward, where 16 infants were reportedly admitted.
According to rescue officials, only one newborn could be saved alive from the nursery.
Fire Breaks Out Inside Nursery After AC Explosion
The blaze started around 6:45 am inside the nursery located on the third floor of the hospital. Initial reports suggest that an explosion in the air conditioner compressor triggered the fire, which quickly spread through the ward.
Emergency teams immediately reached the hospital and launched a rescue operation. Firefighters reportedly broke the nursery windows to enter the smoke-filled room and evacuate the infants.
Videos from the rescue operation showed firefighters working inside the hospital as efforts were made to control the flames and save the newborns.
14 Infants Completely Charred, Probe Ordered
Officials told local media that 14 newborns were completely charred in the incident at the Maternal and Child Health ward. Rescue teams later extinguished the fire and started cooling operations at the site.
The hospital administration has begun assessing the extent of the damage, while an inquiry committee has been formed under the chairmanship of the additional deputy commissioner to investigate the cause of the tragedy.
Authorities are expected to examine the condition of electrical equipment, safety measures and the response time during the emergency.
Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Expresses Grief
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of the newborns and called the incident a heartbreaking tragedy. He directed officials to conduct an immediate investigation and ensure that those responsible for any negligence are identified.
The Prime Minister said that the loss of children in such circumstances was an unbearable tragedy and extended condolences to the affected families.
Safety Questions Rise After Hospital Fire
The incident has raised serious concerns over fire safety measures in healthcare facilities, especially in critical areas such as neonatal wards where newborns require constant protection.
PIMS, which has a 156-bed Maternal and Child Health unit, is among Pakistan's prominent government hospitals and has treated several high-profile patients in the past.