Inquiry Reveals Safety Failures in PIMS Hospital Fire

Sep 17, 2026

62 min

Sep 17, 2026 07:30

PIMS fire inquiry finds no functional fire alarm or sprinkler system after 14 newborn deaths

## Fire Incident and Initial Findings

An investigation into the fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad, which resulted in the deaths of 14 newborns, has uncovered significant safety lapses. The fire, which occurred on August 26, was likely caused by an electrical fault near an air conditioning unit. The inquiry found no functional fire alarm or sprinkler system in the neonatal unit.

## Safety and Management Failures

The report highlighted a lack of emergency preparedness, with locked or obstructed escape routes and no specific evacuation plan for newborns. Previous warnings about fire safety had not been fully addressed, despite earlier incidents and recommendations from authorities.

## Overcrowding and Response

At the time of the fire, the nursery was overcrowded, housing 15 infants in a space designed for 10. The report noted that staff responded quickly, but there was no established incident-command system to manage the emergency effectively.

## Recommendations and Government Response

The inquiry recommended comprehensive safety audits and the implementation of effective fire detection and suppression systems. It also called for improved evacuation procedures and stronger governance. Following the report, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered immediate action to enhance fire safety measures at PIMS and other facilities within three months.

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