The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) has completed an initial report into the fire at its gynaecology ward that claimed the lives of 14 newborns.
The report said the incident took place in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) when a nebuliser displaying the oxygen level near an incubator exploded.
The oxygen caught fire after the explosion, while smoke moved through the pipes and reached the infants’ breathing systems.
According to the report, the newborns died after the oxygen supply was disrupted and they sustained burn injuries. It said the fire initially appeared to be minor but quickly intensified.
CCTV footage reviewed as part of the report also showed flames coming from an air conditioner.
PIMS officials said 15 newborns were inside the nursery at the time of the incident. One baby survived after being rescued, while 14 newborns died.
The district administration said six fire engines and four ambulances took part in the rescue operation after authorities were alerted.
However, eyewitnesses told Geo News that emergency services arrived more than 30 minutes after the fire broke out. They said hospital staff immediately moved to respond to the fire and directed people to evacuate.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif later ordered the suspension of Federal Health Secretary Aslam Ghori.
He also formed an inquiry committee to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Former interior secretary Shahid Khan was appointed to lead the committee, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.
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