An initial report into the tragic deaths of newborn babies at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad has been prepared, providing preliminary details about how the fire may have started.
According to the PIMS administration's initial report, a nebulizer attached to an incubator in the NICU, used to indicate the amount of oxygen, reportedly burst, causing the oxygen to catch fire. The report says the fire was initially limited but spread rapidly.
The report further states that smoke generated by the fire entered the babies' breathing system through the pipes. The newborns died due to loss of oxygen and burn injuries, according to the preliminary findings.
Several newborn babies died in the incident, while one child was rescued. Earlier reports had suggested that the fire was caused by an air-conditioner compressor, but the initial PIMS report points to the bursting of the nebulizer and the subsequent ignition of oxygen.
The tragedy has also raised questions about the presence of staff and emergency arrangements inside the nursery. Parents and eyewitnesses alleged that staff were absent, doors were closed and rescue teams arrived late.
However, the PIMS Executive Director rejected the allegation of staff absence, saying that two doctors, four nurses and other staff members were present in the ICU. He also maintained that the hospital had a fire safety system.
The Capital Development Authority (CDA), meanwhile, said rescue teams reached the hospital promptly after receiving the emergency call, brought the fire under control and shifted the affected children to the ICU.
An eight-member inquiry committee has already been formed by the district administration to investigate the incident and submit its report within 24 hours.
