LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has ordered an urgent safety review of public hospitals across the province after a fire at PIMS Hospital in Islamabad killed at least 14 infants.
The chief minister directed hospital authorities and the administration to complete a fresh audit within 24 hours and report their findings as the government moves to identify and fix fire safety risks.
According to instructions issued by the Chief Minister’s Office, officials must immediately check fire safety systems, emergency exits, and firefighting equipment at public health facilities across Punjab.
وزیر اعلی پنجاب مریم نواز شریف نے انتظامیہ اور ہسپتال انتظامیہ کے لئے 24 گھنٹے میں فریش آڈٹ کی ہدایت کردی ہے اوررپورٹ طلب کرلی ہے pic.twitter.com/Q1SeH5S6wS
— Azma Zahid Bokhari (@AzmaBokhariPMLN) August 26, 2026
Deputy commissioners have been ordered to inspect fire extinguishers and other firefighting equipment at hospitals and ensure they are working properly. They must also review emergency exits with Rescue 1122 teams to determine whether they are accessible and suitable for use during an emergency.
Rescue 1122 has also been directed to check hydrant points at health facilities and identify locations where additional hydrants are needed.
The government has ordered hospitals to review the safe operation of air conditioners, electrical wiring, and other electro-medical equipment. Health departments must submit compliance reports by Aug. 29, according to the instructions.
The new measures also require deputy commissioners to organize monthly emergency drills at health facilities; the drills are intended to ensure hospitals continue following emergency safety procedures.
Maryam has also directed health departments and the chief executive officer of the Infrastructure Development Authority Punjab to prepare a feasibility report for modern fire safety systems.
