Door was locked at Pakistan hospital where fire killed 14 babies, witnesses say
Summary
A fire broke out early Wednesday in a maternity ward at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) hospital in Islamabad, killing 14 newborn babies. Witnesses reported delays in rescue efforts and said the ward door was locked, while officials said the door was staffed for security reasons. The government has ordered an investigation and suspended a health official after expressing sorrow over the tragedy.Key Facts
- The fire started in an air-conditioning unit on the third floor of the mother and child unit at PIMS hospital.
- 14 infants died, and only one of the 15 babies present was saved.
- Witnesses said rescue teams took up to two hours to arrive and that the ward door was locked, blocking escape.
- Hospital officials said the door was staffed to prevent baby theft, a previous problem in government hospitals.
- People had to break down the door and windows to help control the fire and rescue patients.
- Islamabad’s Chief Commissioner said rescue teams reached the scene immediately after the emergency call.
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow and ordered an immediate investigation.
- The Federal Health Secretary Aslam Ghauri was suspended following the incident.
- Poor safety laws and enforcement in Pakistan have been blamed for past deadly fires, including one in a Karachi mall earlier this year.
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