Following the blaze at Islamabad’s Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) that claimed the lives of 14 babies , Chief Minister (CM) of Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif ordered an immediate fire safety audit across all public sector healthcare facilities in the province.
Information Minister of Punjab Azma Bokhari shared the official notification on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the CM has directed the administration and hospital management to execute a fresh audit within 24 hours and submit a detailed report.
The official directive, issued by Principal Secretary Sajid Zafar Dall from the CM’s Office on August 26, outlines explicit timelines and instructions for provincial departments, health authorities, and district management.
Under the orders, Deputy Commissioners must inspect the availability and operational status of fire extinguishers and firefighting equipment across all public health facilities.
The directive covers Teaching Hospitals, District Headquarters Hospitals (DHQs), Tehsil Headquarters Hospitals (THQs), Maryam Nawaz Hospitals (MNHs/RHCs), and Maryam Nawaz Health Clinics (MNHCs). Inspection teams, working alongside Rescue 1122 personnel, will evaluate the accessibility and suitability of emergency exit routes based on standard emergency parameters.
The Secretaries of the Specialized Healthcare & Medical Education Department and the Primary & Secondary Healthcare Department have directed field formations, Medical Superintendents, and CEOs of District Health Authorities to assist district administrations in completing the initial assessments immediately.
The Secretary of the Implementation & Coordination (I&C) Wing, S&GAD, will compile a consolidated report from all districts for the chief minister by August 27.
Beyond immediate safety checks, the official directive sets specific parameters for infrastructure upgrades, hydrants, electrical maintenance, and ongoing emergency drills.
Rescue 1122 will inspect existing water hydrants and identify locations for new installations near healthcare facilities.
Both health secretaries must also oversee a complete safety review of air conditioners, electric wiring, and electro-medical equipment through hospital Medical Superintendents and DHAs CEOs. Reports must reach the I&C Secretary by August 29, followed by a consolidated submission to the chief minister on August 30.
To sustain operational readiness, Deputy Commissioners and Rescue 1122 will conduct monthly emergency mock drills in all health facilities. Additionally, health secretaries and the CEO of the Infrastructure Development Authority of the Punjab (IDAP) have one week to present a feasibility plan for installing technology-driven fire alarms, smoke detectors, and water sprinkler systems in ICUs, nurseries, and emergency units across all public hospitals.
