14 Infants Die in Islamabad Hospital Fire

A massive fire broke out in the mother and child ward of Pakistan's largest public hospital in Islamabad, killing at least 14 infants. The fire erupted around 7 am on the third floor of the state-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).

PIMS Spokesperson Dr Aneeza Jalil said that 15 babies were in the ward when the fire broke out, and at least one baby was saved by a doctor. The fire was suspected to have been caused by a short circuit, and oxygen lines in the ward fueled the blaze.

Rescue teams rushed to the hospital, with six fire brigade vehicles and four ambulances deployed for the operation. The fire was immediately brought under control, but the cooling process would take some time.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said that the fire spread rapidly because of oxygen lines in the ward. Two doctors, two nurses, and other medical staff were also inside the hospital when the blaze broke out.

The hospital administration has contacted parents for samples to conduct DNA tests on some infants whose bodies could not be identified. An inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the incident, and a preliminary report will be presented to the Prime Minister within 14 hours.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has summoned a high-level meeting of the Islamabad administration to discuss the fire and has ordered an immediate investigation. He expressed sorrow over the incident and said that the circumstances leading to the fire must be thoroughly examined, and those responsible identified and punished.

President Asif Ali Zardari has also expressed deep grief over the incident, describing the deaths of the newborns as 'extremely heartbreaking and an irreparable loss'. He directed authorities to identify those responsible and take action against them in accordance with the law.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage and sadness, with many calling for accountability and improved safety measures in hospitals. The investigation is ongoing, and the government has promised to take strict action against those responsible for the tragedy.

In the aftermath of the fire, the government has faced criticism for its handling of the incident, with many questioning the safety protocols in place at the hospital. The incident has highlighted the need for improved safety measures and emergency preparedness in hospitals, particularly in wards where vulnerable patients such as newborns are being treated.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves across the country, with many mourning the loss of innocent lives. The government has promised to take all necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.