Pakistan Hospital Fire: 8 Officials Suspended After Tragic Newborn Deaths

Aug 30, 2026

63 min

Aug 30, 2026 01:30

Pakistan hospital fire: 8 officials suspended as probe reveals failures behind 14 newborn deaths

## Investigation Findings

A fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad resulted in the deaths of 14 newborns. An inquiry revealed significant safety lapses, including the absence of fire alarms and sprinklers in the neonatal ward. The fire spread rapidly, engulfing the ward in just two minutes.

## Response and Accountability

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has suspended eight senior officials and initiated criminal proceedings against them. The suspended officials include PIMS Executive Director Dr. Imran Sikandar and other senior staff. The investigation also highlighted that emergency services were called six minutes after the fire began, with first responders arriving 15 minutes later.

## Safety Concerns

The hospital lacked a dedicated officer for fire emergencies, and only two of its 13 standard operating procedures addressed fire safety. A previous fire at the hospital's nursing hostel in July had not prompted adequate safety improvements.

## Government Action

The government has announced compensation for the affected families and dismissed Health Secretary Aslam Ghauri. Additionally, Punjab province has ordered a review of fire safety measures in its hospitals.

## Public Reaction

The incident has sparked widespread grief and demands for accountability. Families and civil society groups are calling for those responsible to face severe consequences to prevent future tragedies.

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