A fire safety report has raised serious concerns about conditions at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad. The Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) fire department says the hospital has failed to address several safety concerns despite repeated warnings.
The MCI’s Fire Disaster and Management Department (FDMD) has reportedly issued notices to PIMS since 2018. Officials raised concerns about inadequate fire protection measures and urged the hospital administration to take corrective action.
PIMS Received Fire Safety Warnings Since 2018
According to the report, the fire department repeatedly informed PIMS about safety gaps found during inspections. The notices highlighted problems that could put patients, visitors and hospital staff at risk during a fire emergency.
Despite those warnings, the hospital administration allegedly failed to introduce adequate measures to address the reported deficiencies. The fire audit again brought the same concerns to the attention of PIMS officials.
The report indicates that the hospital still lacks important equipment needed to prevent and respond to fires. Such shortages could make it difficult for staff to control an emergency quickly.
MCI Calls for Trained Fire Safety Staff
The MCI fire department has recommended several steps to improve safety at the hospital. One key recommendation calls for trained personnel to remain available around the clock to manage fire emergencies.
The department also advised PIMS to obtain a fire compliance certificate. This would help demonstrate that the hospital meets the required fire safety standards.
Officials further recommended regular evacuation drills and training for hospital employees. Such exercises can help staff understand emergency procedures and guide patients and visitors to safety.
Fire Safety Concerns Raise Questions
The findings have raised questions about why the reported problems remained unresolved despite years of warnings. PIMS serves a large number of patients and operates as one of Islamabad’s major public hospitals.
Fire safety becomes particularly important in hospitals because many patients cannot move without assistance. Medical equipment, crowded wards and limited mobility can also make emergency evacuations more difficult.
The MCI recommendations now place renewed focus on the hospital administration’s responsibility to improve its fire protection arrangements. Addressing the reported deficiencies could help reduce risks and improve emergency preparedness at PIMS.
The latest report also highlights the importance of regular inspections and timely action at major healthcare facilities. Continued monitoring will be necessary to determine whether PIMS implements the measures recommended by the MCI fire department.
