UN Offers Support After PIMS Fire Kills 14 Newborns in Islamabad
ISLAMABAD: The United Nations has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of 14 newborn babies in the devastating fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad, adding an international response to a tragedy that has prompted investigations, demands for accountability and renewed scrutiny of hospital fire safety standards.
UN Secretary-General spokesperson Stephane Dujarric conveyed sympathies to the families who lost their children and said the organisation was prepared to extend assistance to the Government of Pakistan. The response came as the scale of the loss continued to draw condolences from governments and international organisations following the blaze at the federal capital's largest public-sector hospital.
UNICEF also expressed grief over the deaths and stressed the need for stronger protection of mothers and newborns in healthcare facilities. The UN children's agency called for an urgent review and strengthening of fire prevention and safety measures in hospitals, placing the focus on whether existing systems are sufficient to protect vulnerable patients during emergencies.
Saudi Arabia separately conveyed condolences and solidarity with Pakistan after the incident. The Saudi Foreign Ministry expressed support for the bereaved families as well as the Pakistani government and public, reflecting the wider international reaction to the deaths of the infants.
The fire broke out on August 26 in the nursery of the Mother and Child Health facility at PIMS. Fifteen newborns were reported to have been inside the nursery, with 14 losing their lives and one being rescued. Preliminary accounts have focused on an electrical or air-conditioning-related spark and the rapid spread of flames in an oxygen-rich environment, although authorities have said the final cause must be established through investigation rather than assumption.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered a high-level inquiry into the disaster and directed officials to determine both the cause of the fire and whether negligence contributed to the loss of life. The investigation is also examining the emergency response, fire-safety infrastructure, CCTV footage, staff statements and relevant hospital records. An interim report was ordered within 48 hours, followed by a more comprehensive report containing findings and recommendations.
The federal government has meanwhile announced compensation of Rs5 million for each bereaved family while acknowledging that financial assistance cannot replace the lives lost. The government has said support will continue for affected families. The federal health secretary was also removed following the tragedy as authorities moved to demonstrate accountability while the investigation proceeds.
The next major development is expected to be the inquiry findings, which could determine responsibility and lead to administrative or legal action if negligence is established. Beyond PIMS, the tragedy has intensified pressure for a broader review of fire preparedness in Pakistani hospitals, particularly maternity and neonatal units where patients may be unable to evacuate without immediate assistance.