Islamabad, 26 August (H.S.): Fifteen newborn babies were killed after a fire broke out at around 6:45 a.m. on Wednesday in the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Ward of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad. According to PIMS officials, 16 newborns were in the ward when the fire broke out, of whom only one could be rescued. The fire was reportedly triggered by the explosion of an air-conditioner compressor.

According to a report by The News, the district administration confirmed that 14 babies were completely burned in the blaze that erupted on the third floor of the ward. Rescue teams rushed to the hospital immediately after receiving information about the incident. Six fire engines and four ambulances took part in the rescue operation. A committee headed by the Additional Deputy Commissioner has been constituted to investigate the incident and determine the cause of the fire.

Officials said the ward was sealed following the incident. Parents alleged that no staff members were present at the incubation centre when the fire broke out. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered an investigation into the tragedy and directed that strict action be taken against anyone found responsible. He also expressed solidarity with the grieving parents.

The district administration said officials from the Islamabad Electric Supply Company and PIMS have also been included in the investigation committee. The committee is expected to submit its report within 24 hours. Sources from the rescue teams described the hospital's fire-safety arrangements as grossly inadequate.

According to sources, there was no water available at the site of the fire, while the fire hoses were missing couplings. Emergency exit routes were also blocked. Sources said that at the time of the incident, no doctor, ward attendant or other staff member was present at the incubation centre.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar