India Prime TV | International Desk | New Delhi At least 15 newborn babies lost their lives after a devastating fire broke out in the neonatal nursery of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad on Wednesday morning (August 26, 2026). According to initial reports, the fire was triggered after an air conditioner (AC) compressor exploded, causing thick smoke and flames to spread rapidly through the ward.

Pakistan Hospital Fire Cause

According to local media and rescue officials, the incident occurred on the third floor of the Mother and Child Health (MCH) block at PIMS Hospital. The blast in the AC compressor allegedly caused a short circuit, leading to a massive fire inside the neonatal nursery. Hospital staff had very little time to evacuate the infants as smoke quickly engulfed the area.

Casualties and Rescue Operation

Hospital authorities confirmed that 16 newborn babies were admitted to the nursery at the time of the incident. Rescue teams, firefighters, and medical staff launched an emergency operation, breaking windows to enter the smoke-filled ward.

Despite intensive rescue efforts, only one infant was rescued alive, while 15 newborns died due to suffocation and severe burns. At least six fire engines and multiple ambulances were deployed to control the blaze before cooling operations began.

Government Orders High-Level Inquiry

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended condolences to the affected families. He has directed authorities to conduct an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident.

The district administration has also constituted a high-level inquiry committee under the Additional Deputy Commissioner General to determine whether negligence in safety standards, electrical maintenance, or hospital infrastructure contributed to the deadly fire.

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