After deadly blaze at Pims, hospitals in Punjab told to ensure fire safety

Punjab chief executive Maryam Nawaz has issued a fresh directive for fire safety audits at hospitals following a tragic incident where 14 infants lost their lives at Islamabad's Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) on Wednesday. The blaze, sparked by a suspected spark in the air conditioner, forced emergency personnel to break windows to reach the neonatal ICU, only to find locked doors.

In response, the Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) has ordered hospitals across Punjab to implement comprehensive fire safety measures. This includes ensuring trained personnel, functional emergency equipment, adequate resources, and regular emergency drills. All public and private hospitals must adhere to Minimum Service Delivery Standards (MSDS) and Facility Management System (FMS) and Hospital Infection Control (HIC) requirements.

Hospitals are to establish an emergency coding system, prominently display emergency exit maps, and obtain necessary building safety and fitness certificates. The PHC will oversee inspections, and hospitals found non-compliant will receive improvement recommendations. Additionally, Rescue 1122 has been tasked with reviewing and installing new hydrant points in or near health facilities, a task to be completed within a week.

Divisional commissioners are to personally supervise this activity. The Punjab Information Minister announced Maryam's directives on X, urging a comprehensive review of fire safety arrangements at hospitals, with a report to be submitted by August 27, 2026.