A fire safety assessment of 22 government hospitals across Sindh, including six major hospitals in Karachi, has revealed serious safety deficiencies, with several healthcare facilities lacking fire alarm and water sprinkler systems.
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According to media reports, the findings raise concerns over emergency preparedness at hospitals treating thousands of patients, particularly following the recent deadly fire at PIMS Hospital in Islamabad that claimed the lives of 14 newborn babies.
At Civil Hospital Karachi, all 180 fire extinguishers inspected were found to be operational. However, the hospital does not have fire alarm or sprinkler systems, while electrical wiring at the 1,750-bed facility requires repairs.
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At Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), all 208 fire extinguishers were reported operational, but the hospital also lacks fire alarms and sprinkler systems. Electrical wiring at the 2,208-bed facility requires repairs, according to the report.
The situation at the National Institute of Child Health (NICH) was more concerning. Of its 135 fire extinguishers, 40 were found to be defective. The 533-bed hospital does not have a fire alarm system, while its electrical wiring requires extensive repairs.
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At Lyari General Hospital, only 20 fire extinguishers were found to be operational. The 700-bed facility lacks water sprinklers and does not conduct regular fire drills.
Similarly, Qatar Hospital had only 25 operational fire extinguishers and no fire alarm system. Regular fire drills were also not being conducted at the 410-bed facility. At Saudabad Hospital, 18 fire extinguishers were operational, but the facility had no fire alarm system.
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The Korangi Children’s Institute had 39 operational fire extinguishers and 39 fire balls, with its overall arrangements described as satisfactory.
Fire safety data for NICVD and SIUT facilities in Karachi was incomplete. The report noted that data for several major medical institutions had not been provided.
The findings underscore the need for hospitals to improve fire detection systems, emergency exits, firefighting equipment, electrical safety and regular evacuation drills to ensure patients, staff and visitors can be protected during emergencies.
