PIMS tragedy: Initial inquiry report released, six hospital officers and two CDA officials suspended
The federal government has released the 11-page initial inquiry report into the PIMS tragedy, identifying serious shortcomings in emergency response, fire safety and evacuation arrangements at the hospital.
According to the report, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had ordered the release of the initial inquiry findings and approved the recommendations of the inquiry committee.
The report noted that supervisory staff was not present at the scene at the time of the incident. It also found that PIMS had no proper standard operating procedures (SOPs) or training related to emergency situations.
The prime minister has ordered the suspension of six PIMS officers and two officials of the Capital Development Authority (CDA), with departmental proceedings initiated against those facing action.
PIMS Executive Director Prof Dr Imran Sikandar has been ordered to be suspended, while HOD Neonatology Dr Sadia Riaz and Senior Registrar Dr Nagham have also been suspended.
Departmental action has also been ordered against Joint Executive Director MCH Dr Mutahir Shah. Joint Executive Director Non-Medical PIMS Chaudhry Waris Ali Raza and Director MCH Dr Nosheela Amjad will also be suspended.
Among the CDA officials, DGCES Dr Abdul Rehman has been suspended, while departmental action has been initiated against Assistant Director Security Muhammad Usman.
The inquiry committee has also recommended criminal proceedings against those found responsible for the PIMS nursery fire.
The report said a further forensic and technical investigation would be conducted to determine the exact cause of the fire and establish responsibility.
The inquiry identified serious deficiencies in PIMS's emergency fire safety, evacuation and notification systems. It also recommended further verification of a report by the Chief Engineer Services (CES) regarding fire exits that were allegedly blocked or obstructed.
The authorities have been directed to continue investigating an alleged delay in informing emergency services about the nursery fire.
The report also raised questions over why previously identified fire safety deficiencies had not been removed despite an earlier fire incident at PIMS in July.
According to the inquiry findings, shortcomings had also been identified in the fire alarm and smoke detection systems during the July incident. The report further highlighted deficiencies in emergency drills and preparedness.
The initial inquiry has therefore called for further investigation into the institutional failures and technical causes behind the incident, while disciplinary and criminal action will proceed against officials found responsible.
The federal government's decision follows growing concern over emergency preparedness and fire safety arrangements at the country's major public-sector hospital.