Islamabad Hospital Fire: 15 Newborns Killed in Blaze at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences
At least 15 newborn babies were killed after a fire broke out in the gynecology ward of a major state-run hospital in Pakistan's capital city of Islamabad on Wednesday morning. Authorities suspect the blaze was triggered by a technical fault in the facility's air conditioning system.
At least 15 newborn babies were killed after a fire broke out in the nursery of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), a major state-run hospital in Islamabad, on Wednesday, according to reports. The fire was reportedly linked to a fault in the hospital's air-conditioning system, with an AC compressor explosion suspected as the immediate cause.
The incident occurred in the hospital's gynaecology ward, where 16 newborns were reportedly present when the fire broke out. One baby was rescued, according to the reports. Pakistan Bombs Kabul Rehab Centre: 400 Dead, 250 Injured in Airstrike on Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital (Watch Videos).
Fire Breaks Out in Hospital Nursery
The blaze was reported at PIMS in Islamabad during the morning hours. Initial reports said the fire started after a fault in an air-conditioning system, with an AC compressor reportedly exploding inside the nursery.
Rescue teams and firefighters were sent to the hospital after the fire was reported. Videos circulating from the scene showed firefighters entering the nursery and carrying out rescue operations. Karachi Mall Fire: 26 People Dead, 81 Still Missing As Massive Blaze Rips Through Gul Plaza on MA Jinnah Road in Pakistan.
According to reports, the affected nursery was located on the third floor of the hospital's gynaecology ward. Firefighters reportedly had to break a window to gain access to the area.
15 Newborns Reportedly Killed
Geo TV, citing hospital officials, reported that 16 newborns were inside the nursery when the fire broke out. Only one child was rescued, while at least 15 died.
However, casualty figures were not immediately consistent across all reports. The Associated Press later reported that 14 newborns had died, based on information from rescue officials. The discrepancy underscores that the casualty count remained subject to confirmation as authorities continued operations at the hospital.
Cooling Operations Continue
Following the fire, emergency teams continued cooling operations at the affected section of the hospital, according to local reports. Authorities are expected to investigate the exact cause of the blaze, including whether an electrical or air-conditioning fault triggered the fire and whether safety and emergency-response systems functioned as required.
Investigation Expected
The incident has raised questions about fire safety and emergency preparedness at healthcare facilities, particularly in areas such as neonatal and maternity wards where patients may require immediate assistance during an emergency.
A detailed official account of the fire, including the final death toll, the precise cause and any findings concerning hospital safety procedures, is expected as authorities investigate the incident.
The PIMS fire is also likely to draw renewed attention to safety standards in hospitals, where newborns and critically ill patients can be especially vulnerable during emergencies.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 26, 2026 11:12 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
