The death of 14 newborn babies in a fire that broke out in the neonatal ward of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad is an immensely painful tragedy.

One cannot help but think about the mothers of these innocent little souls. How carefully must they have carried these babies in their wombs for nine long months? How anxiously must each mother have spent those months, praying that her child would arrive safely into the world? Little did these unfortunate mothers know that, only days after entering this world, their tiny flowers would be consumed by fire and smoke and return from where they had come.

Amid the flood of information surrounding the tragedy, one particularly heartbreaking account was that of a father who said that his child had been born after years of marriage. One wonders what must have happened to the parents who had waited for years, carrying prayers, hopes and dreams in their hearts, only to see their long-awaited child snatched away by such a sudden calamity. May Allah Almighty grant these bereaved parents the strength and patience to endure this unbearable loss. Ameen.

We are well aware that newborn babies, patients dependent on ventilators, unconscious patients and persons with disabilities are among the most vulnerable in any emergency.

We are well aware that newborn babies, patients dependent on ventilators, unconscious patients and persons with disabilities are among the most vulnerable in any emergency.

Amid all the grief surrounding this incident, the humanity and courage displayed by nurse Raziya deserve our deepest respect. Her bravery resulted in the saving of one newborn’s life. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s decision to award Raziya Rs10 million and nominate her for the Sitara-i-Khidmat is a highly commendable step. The courage and dedication of an ordinary worker deserve recognition and encouragement.

The interim inquiry report has now shed considerable light on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. While the precise technical source of the fire has not yet been conclusively........

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