Pakistani investigators visiting hospital nursery where fire killed 14 newborns
Investigators appointed by Pakistan's prime minister visited a hospital nursery in Islamabad on Thursday following a devastating fire that killed 14 newborn babies. The fire broke out early Wednesday and was contained to the third-floor nursery, preventing damage to the rest of the facility. Only one baby survived, and the remaining 15 infants perished.
Candlelight vigils were held at the scene by grieving families, hospital staff, patients, and members of civil society. The government is under pressure to address safety measures and fire-prevention standards in hospitals. An investigating committee led by retired federal secretary Shahid Khan has been formed to determine the cause of the blaze and will provide recommendations to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif within 48 hours, with a comprehensive report within five days.
The Pakistani Taliban expressed condolences to the families of the victims, despite being involved in numerous attacks across the country.
Written by urgent.news from Winnipeg Free Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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