Islamabad: At least 15 newborns were killed after a fire swept through the nursery of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences’ Mother and Child Health ward in Islamabad on Wednesday, officials said.
Sixteen infants were reportedly present in the nursery when the blaze erupted. Rescue teams managed to save one baby, while the remaining 15 died, according to hospital officials cited by local media.
The fire broke out around 6.45 a.m. on the third floor of the gynaecology ward. Initial reports suggested that an explosion in an air-conditioner compressor may have triggered the blaze.
Firefighters rushed to the hospital after being alerted and brought the flames under control. Cooling operations continued after the fire was extinguished to prevent it from flaring up again.
The district administration said 14 infants were completely burnt in the incident. Six fire tenders and four ambulances were deployed during the rescue operation.
The tragedy has triggered concerns over fire-safety arrangements at the government hospital, particularly in a ward accommodating newborn babies.
Authorities have ordered an inquiry into the incident. An investigation panel led by the Additional Deputy Commissioner will examine the cause of the blaze, the circumstances in which the infants died and the emergency response by hospital and rescue personnel.
Further details are awaited.
(Inputs from IANS)