Punjab CM orders immediate safety audit of public hospitals

WEB DESK: Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday ordered an immediate audit of fire safety arrangements and emergency preparedness at public sector health facilities across the province. The decision by the chief minister comes after the PIMS hospital incident, where 14 new born babies were born today.  

According to instructions issued by the CM’s Office, deputy commissioners have been directed to assess the availability and functionality of fire extinguishers and firefighting arrangements at teaching hospitals, district and tehsil headquarters hospitals, Maryam Nawaz Hospitals and Maryam Nawaz Health Clinics.

The inspection teams will also review the suitability and accessibility of emergency exits in consultation with Rescue 1122 teams, according to a notification seen on X account of the Punjab Spokesperson Azma Zahid Bokhari.  

The notification highlighted that the provincial health departments have been directed to assist district administrations in completing the task on an immediate basis. A consolidated report from all districts has been sought by August 27, according the statement.

Rescue 1122 has also been tasked with reviewing the availability and functionality of hydrant points at health facilities and identifying locations requiring new hydrants.

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

The chief minister has further ordered a review of the safety of air conditioners, electrical wiring and other electro-medical equipment in hospitals, with compliance reports to be submitted within three days.

The instructions also call for monthly mock emergency drills at health facilities and feasibility studies for installing technology-driven fire alarm systems, smoke detectors and water sprinkler systems in intensive care units, nurseries, emergency units and tertiary-care hospitals.

Divisional commissioners have been directed to personally supervise the implementation of the measures, while the CM’s Office will monitor compliance.