Islamabad, August 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
At least 14 newborn babies were killed after a fire broke out in the gynaecology ward of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad on Wednesday morning, officials said. Initial reports had put the toll at 15, but the latest statements from hospital and administration officials confirmed 14 deaths.
The blaze broke out at around 6:45 a.m. on the third floor of the Mother and Child Hospital, where newborns were being treated in a nursery. PIMS officials said 15 babies were present in the ward, while one infant was rescued.
Rescue sources said the fire appeared to have started after an air-conditioning unit or compressor malfunctioned. Firefighters reached the hospital and brought the blaze under control, after which cooling operations were carried out to prevent a possible resurgence of the fire.
The Islamabad administration said six fire brigade vehicles and four ambulances were deployed during the emergency response. The affected ward was secured as authorities began assessing the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The incident has raised concerns about fire safety and emergency preparedness at the hospital, particularly in a ward housing vulnerable newborns. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident.
An inquiry committee has also been constituted to determine the cause of the fire, examine the emergency response and establish whether any lapses contributed to the deaths. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
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