The Punjab government has ordered the installation of fire hydrants around major government hospitals across the province.
According to a spokesperson for the Punjab Housing Department, existing fire safety arrangements at public hospitals will also be reviewed. The review is being carried out on the directions of the Punjab chief minister.
Fire hydrants planned at 57 hospitals
In the first phase, the government has prepared a list of 57 major public hospitals where fire hydrants will be installed according to local requirements.
Fire hydrant facilities around Rural Health Centres (RHCs), Tehsil Headquarters Hospitals (THQs), District Headquarters Hospitals (DHQs) and other major public hospitals will also be improved.
All Water and Sanitation Agencies (WASAs) have been directed to identify important locations where new fire hydrants are needed.
Authorities will also inspect existing fire hydrants near government hospitals. They will check whether these hydrants are available, accessible and working properly.
Rescue 1122 to receive support
The Housing Department said it is providing full assistance to Rescue 1122 and other relevant departments.
The Housing Department and other concerned institutions will work together on the installation and improvement of fire hydrants around hospitals.
Hospital patients may have limited mobility and require additional assistance during evacuation. The government has therefore placed special attention on improving fire prevention and emergency arrangements at major healthcare facilities.
This initiative comes following the loss of precious lives in a tragic fire incident in Islamabad PIMS Hospital.
PIMS Hospital incident
At least 15 newborn babies lost their lives after a fire broke out in the nursery of the Mother and Child Hospital (MCH) at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad.
The fire reportedly started at around 6:45am in the hospital nursery.
PIMS spokesperson Dr Aneeza Jalil said that 15 babies were present in the ward when the fire broke out. She said one newborn was rescued by a doctor.
However, hospital records provided different details. According to the documents, 14 newborns were admitted and receiving treatment, while a 15th baby was rescued from the affected area.
The incident has raised serious concerns over fire safety and emergency arrangements at healthcare facilities.
Read more: PIMS Hospital fire tragedy complete details