PIMS fire inquiry report finds major safety failures behind deaths of newborns

A 43-page inquiry report into the deadly fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) has found major safety failures responsible for the deaths of 14 newborn babies. The fire, which originated from an electrical cable connected to an air conditioner, is believed to have been caused by a short circuit. The report highlights the overcrowded nursery, which had 15 newborns receiving treatment at the time of the incident, and the lack of adequate emergency evacuation facilities, sprinkler or alarm systems, and an automatic fire-detection system.

Despite previous warnings about safety deficiencies, the hospital failed to make necessary improvements, placing primary institutional responsibility on PIMS and its senior management. The committee also recommended further criminal investigations into the delay in seeking external assistance, electrical maintenance, and the role of contractors, as well as the establishment of effective safety management systems in all hospitals.

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