Fire at Islamabad hospital kills 15 newborns in maternity ward

A major fire broke out in the gynaecology and maternity ward of a hospital in Islamabad on Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of 15 newborn infants. Emergency services responded to the incident, which has sent shockwaves through Pakistan's medical community and sparked urgent calls for safety audits across healthcare facilities.

The fire spread rapidly through the ward, affecting multiple patient areas in what authorities have described as one of the most severe hospital incidents in recent years. While the exact cause remains under investigation, preliminary reports suggest potential lapses in fire safety infrastructure and emergency protocols at the facility.

Local health authorities have launched a formal inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Government officials have indicated that a comprehensive review of fire safety standards and evacuation procedures will be undertaken across hospitals in the region to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The incident has reignited concerns about healthcare infrastructure and safety compliance in Pakistan's medical sector. Hospital administrators and relevant health department officials are cooperating with investigators as families mourn the loss of the infants.