Inquiry Flags Safety Lapses at PIMS Nursery
News Desk
Islamabad: The inquiry into the deaths of 14 newborns in a fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) has raised serious questions over hospital safety standards, emergency preparedness and the presence of key staff during the incident, according to sources.
An initial inquiry report submitted to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has identified factors behind the deadly fire and pointed to individuals and officials considered responsible for the tragedy, sources said.
The fire broke out at around 6:45am in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) on the third floor of the Mother and Child Health ward. Fifteen newborns were present in the nursery at the time, but only one survived.
The inquiry committee found significant shortcomings in PIMS facilities and treatment arrangements, observing that several aspects of the hospital’s system did not meet international standards, according to sources.
Emergency response challenges
The report also examined how emergency teams responded to the fire and highlighted difficulties encountered by firefighters and rescue personnel during the operation.
Statements from fire brigade and rescue officials, along with accounts from PIMS doctors and administrative staff, were recorded as part of the investigation.
The findings have prompted recommendations for strengthening fire safety arrangements, emergency response procedures and preparedness at the hospital to reduce the risk of similar incidents.
Action over alleged negligence
The committee recommended immediate action against individuals and officials held responsible for the incident. It also proposed disciplinary proceedings against relevant PIMS employees who were absent when the fire broke out.
Former interior secretary Shahid Khan, who headed the inquiry committee formed on the prime minister’s directives, submitted the report late Friday to PM Adviser Tauqir Hussain Shah.
The adviser subsequently forwarded the report to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and briefed him on its key findings and recommendations.
The report carries the signatures of all members of the inquiry committee, which included Shahid Khan as chairman, Major General (retd) Dr Khurshid Utra, Dr Barrister Nabeel Ahmed Awan and Islamabad Deputy Commissioner.
According to sources, the final decision on making the inquiry report public rests with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
