At least 15 infants died on Wednesday (local time) after a fire broke out in a state-run hospital in Pakistan’s capital city, Islamabad, after an air conditioner compressor exploded.
The incident occurred in the gynaecology ward of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Geo TV reported, citing officials, who added that the nursery had 16 newborns at the time of the incident, with only one being rescued.
Citing rescue sources, the report added that the fire broke out around 6:45 am after an air conditioner compressor exploded inside the nursery at the hospital situated in Islamabad. The district administration said that of 15, 14 children were completely burnt in the fire that broke out on the third floor of the MCH ward.
The officials added that the blaze was brought under control and rescue teams were carrying out cooling operations at the site. After receiving the information, rescue teams reached the site immediately, the district administration noted, adding that at least six fire brigades and four ambulances were sent to the spot.
This is a developing story. More details awaited.
