World News : At least 15 newborn babies were killed after a massive fire broke out at a government hospital in Pakistan’s capital Islamabad on Wednesday. According to local media reports, the fire started in the nursery of the gynaecology ward at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).
Officials said 16 newborns were admitted to the nursery when the incident occurred. Only one child could be rescued safely, while 15 newborns died in the tragedy.
According to rescue officials, the fire reportedly broke out after an air conditioner compressor exploded inside the hospital nursery. The flames spread rapidly, filling the ward with thick smoke.
Fire Broke Out on Third Floor of MCH Ward
The fire occurred on the third floor of the hospital’s MCH ward. According to the district administration, the bodies of 14 children were completely burnt in the incident.
Rescue teams rushed to the hospital soon after receiving information about the fire. Six fire engines and four ambulances were deployed during the rescue operation.
Firefighters later brought the blaze under control. A cooling operation was subsequently carried out to prevent the possibility of the fire reigniting.
Hospital Area Gripped by Panic
The incident triggered panic inside the hospital and surrounding areas. Family members of the newborns were left devastated following the deaths.
The district administration has constituted an inquiry committee headed by the Additional Deputy Commissioner to investigate the cause of the fire and possible lapses.
Probe Ordered Into Cause and Possible Safety Lapses
According to the administration, the committee will determine the exact cause of the fire and examine the circumstances that led to the incident.
The inquiry will also investigate whether there were any shortcomings in the hospital’s safety arrangements.
