The federal government has announced Rs5 million compensation for PIMS fire victims’ families after 14 infants died in a hospital fire in Islamabad. The financial assistance aims to support the bereaved families during their difficult time.
According to the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan, the government said the assistance would provide some relief to the grieving parents. Authorities also expressed deep sorrow over the loss and conveyed solidarity with the affected families.
The government acknowledged that no financial assistance could compensate for the loss of precious human lives. However, it said the support was intended to help families manage immediate difficulties following the tragedy involving the PIMS fire victims.
The fire broke out on Wednesday in the Mother and Child Health Ward at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences. The blaze killed 14 infants, according to authorities, while 19 people, including seven children, were rescued from the affected area.
Health Minister Mustafa Kamal said CCTV footage indicated that a spark from an air conditioner fell and caused the fire to spread rapidly. He said the flames reportedly spread within a minute, creating a dangerous situation inside the ward.
The minister said 26 fire extinguishers were used to control the blaze, but the ward did not have a water sprinkler system. Witnesses described heavy smoke, broken glass and chaotic scenes during the emergency, while questions were also raised about the response to the fire.
The government assured the families of the PIMS fire victims that it would continue providing all possible support and cooperation. The compensation comes as authorities face growing calls for accountability and improved fire safety measures at public hospitals to prevent similar tragedies.
