A devastating fire ripped through the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad on Wednesday morning, killing 15 newborn babies in the hospital’s nursery ward. The blaze was triggered by an AC compressor explosion around 7 AM, which quickly filled the ward with thick toxic smoke. Only one infant survived out of the 16 babies who were admitted at the time of the tragic incident.
AC Compressor Explosion Sparks Deadly Blaze in Gynecology Ward
The explosion occurred in the gynecology department of PIMS, one of Islamabad’s largest and oldest government hospitals. Firefighters and emergency rescue teams rushed to the scene immediately after the blast was reported. They managed to control the flames after a major effort and launched a cooling operation in the affected ward to prevent reignition.
PIMS Spokesperson Confirms Short Circuit as Likely Cause of Fire
PIMS spokesperson Dr. Aneesa Jalil told Dawn newspaper that 16 newborn babies were in the ward when the fire broke out. When asked about the cause, she said it appeared to be a short circuit. “One doctor managed to save a baby,” she added. The hospital administration has formed a high-level investigation committee headed by the Additional Deputy Commissioner General to probe the incident thoroughly.
Islamabad’s Largest Government Hospital Faces Major Crisis
PIMS was built in 1985 and is the second oldest government hospital in Islamabad. It remains the largest public healthcare facility in the Pakistani capital, serving thousands of patients daily. The tragic incident has sparked widespread grief across the country and raised serious questions about fire safety standards in government hospitals. Many families are now demanding accountability and better safety measures to prevent such disasters in the future. Authorities have promised a thorough investigation and strict action against those responsible for any negligence.
