The initial investigation report on the death of newborns at PIMS Hospital in Islamabad has been submitted to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. According to sources, the report examines the causes of the incident, responsibility and the difficulties encountered during the relief operations.
The report was submitted by the head of the inquiry committee and former Interior Secretary Shahid Khan to the office of the Prime Minister’s Advisor Tauqir Shah. Later, the report was sent to the Prime Minister and its important recommendations were also informed. The report bears the signatures of all the members of the committee.
According to sources, the committee has identified the causes of the incident along with the individuals whose negligence or responsibility was revealed. The report also mentions the absence of relevant staff and recommends action against such officials.
The investigation report also includes the difficulties faced by the rescue and fire brigade teams. In addition to the statements of the PIMS administration and doctors, information obtained from the fire brigade and rescue personnel has also been made part of the report.
The report also reviewed the medical facilities and security arrangements of the hospital. According to sources, the committee has described the treatment and other facilities as below world standards. It has also recommended improving administrative and security measures to avoid such incidents in the future.
This investigation process was completed by a committee formed on the instructions of the Prime Minister. The committee was headed by former Federal Secretary Shahid Khan, while other members included Major General (retd) Dr. Khurshid Utra, Dr. Barrister Nabeel Ahmed Awan and Deputy Commissioner Islamabad. The committee was given the responsibility of determining the cause of the fire, the timeline of the incident, emergency response, fire safety and possible negligence.
The decision to make the report public is in the hands of the Prime Minister. According to sources, the committee has recommended immediate action against the responsible persons, however, the final administrative or legal action will be taken after the government reviews the report.
The incident that took place at PIMS has raised important questions regarding fire safety, emergency exits, staff availability and preparedness of rescue systems in government hospitals. Including these issues in the investigation report also highlights the need for practical steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
