Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday suspended Federal Health Secretary Aslam Ghori and ordered a high-level inquiry into a devastating fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad that claimed the lives of 14 newborn babies.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) Media Wing, the prime minister took the decision while chairing an emergency meeting called after the tragic incident at the state-run hospital.
He expressed strong displeasure over the handling of the situation and directed the health secretary to leave the meeting following his suspension.
The prime minister also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the parents of the newborn who died in the tragic fire.
He prayed that Allah grant patience and strength to the affected families and said the government stood alongside the grieving parents.
Describing the tragedy as “deeply heartbreaking,” the prime minister expressed sorrow over the loss of the infant.
The fire broke out in the nursery of the Maternal and Child Health Ward at PIMS, where newborn babies were being treated.
As per the PIMS Hospital officials, said 14 infants died in the incident.
Meanwhile, PM Shehbaz ordered a comprehensive investigation to establish how the fire started, determine whether any negligence was involved and examine the hospital’s administrative and safety arrangements.
The inquiry committee will identify those responsible and submit its findings to the prime minister.
Former Interior Secretary Shahid Khan has been appointed to head the inquiry committee, while other senior officials will also be part of the investigation.
The prime minister also directed Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal to immediately travel to Islamabad, visit PIMS and assess the situation before submitting a detailed report.