August 26, 2026
Air-conditioning fault reported as cause of devastating blaze at Pakistan’s largest public hospital
At least 14 newborn babies have died after a fire broke out at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Wednesday morning, according to Reuters. Local media have reported a possible death toll of 15.
The fire erupted at around 7 a.m. local time on the third floor of the hospital’s Mother and Child Health ward. Reports indicate that an air-conditioning system fault may have triggered the blaze.
Emergency crews rushed to the hospital as thick smoke spread through the ward. Reuters reported that 16 newborns were in the ward, with only one child reportedly surviving.
Families demand answers
The tragedy has left families outside the hospital in deep distress, with grieving relatives seeking information about their children.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered an immediate investigation into the fire. Authorities are expected to examine the cause of the blaze and whether adequate fire-safety measures were in place.
The incident has also renewed concerns about conditions at Pakistan’s public hospitals, many of which face overcrowding, limited resources and longstanding safety challenges.
Investigation underway
Emergency teams have extinguished the fire and the affected ward has been cordoned off while investigators assess the damage.
Officials have yet to provide a final confirmed casualty figure, meaning the death toll could change as authorities complete their investigation.
The devastating incident is already being described as one of Pakistan’s deadliest hospital fires in recent years.
