PM Shehbaz Orders High-Level Inquiry Into PIMS Fire Incident, Sets Tight Deadlines For Report
ISLAMABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 26th Aug, 2026)
Prime Minister, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday directed the formation of a high-level inquiry committee to investigate the fire incident at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).
According to the official notification issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, retired Federal secretary Shahid Khan has been appointed chairman of the inquiry committee. Other members include Major General (R) Dr. Khurshid Utra, Dr. Barrister Nabeel Ahmed Awan, and the Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad.
Notification Details
The notification outlines a detailed mandate for the committee:
- Determine the immediate cause of the fire and establish a timeline of events.
- Review the emergency response and relief operations carried out by hospital staff and relevant institutions, including the Fire Brigade and Rescue 1122.
- Assess compliance with emergency SOPs for the evacuation of newborns, particularly high-risk infants.
- Conduct a thorough review of fire safety infrastructure at PIMS and adherence to existing safety regulations.
- Fix responsibility and identify negligence on the part of any individuals involved.
- Present recommendations for necessary administrative reforms at PIMS to prevent future occurrences.
Timeframe for Reports:
- An interim report with urgent recommendations is to be submitted within 48 hours.
- A comprehensive report, covering the complete investigation and actionable recommendations, within five days.
The Ministry of National Health Services has been directed to immediately notify the inquiry committee and extend full cooperation.
