Footage aired on television showed rescue workers using ladders and going through broken windows to access the affected area.

In a statement, the Islamabad administration said that the fire broke out on the third floor of the Mother and Child Hospital’s ward. It said that rescue teams rushed to the scene, with six fire brigade vehicles and four ambulances taking part in the rescue operation.

“The fire was immediately brought under control and the children were immediately shifted to the intensive care unit,” it said, adding that 14 children “were completely burnt”.

It said that an inquiry committee headed by the additional deputy commissioner general had been formed to investigate the incident.

Pims Spokesperson Dr Aneeza Jalil told Dawn that 15 babies were in the ward. Asked about the cause of the incident, she said that the fire — which erupted at 7am — appeared to have erupted due to a short circuit.

“At least one baby was saved by a doctor,” she said.

Malik Israr, whose niece was admitted to the gynae ward, told Dawn that it was unfortunate the nursery was housed in a building in which repair and renovation work was ongoing.

“After the fire erupted, they told patients to vacate the building. Women who had just given birth had to rush down the stairs from the second floor,” he said.

Pims, established in 1985, is Islamabad’s biggest public sector hospital. It is one of two of the oldest health facilities in the federal capital and comprises several hospitals and teaching institutes.

This is a developing story that is being updated as the situation evolves. Initial reports in the media can sometimes be inaccurate. We will strive to ensure timeliness and accuracy by relying on credible sources, such as concerned, qualified authorities and our staff reporters.

In separate messages on Eid Miladun Nabi, both leaders extended heartfelt felicitations to the nation and the Muslim Ummah on the birth anniversary of Holy Prophet (PBUH).

In his message, the president said, “It is incumbent upon us to practically promote justice and fairness, tolerance, inter-sectarian and interfaith harmony, and the protection of human dignity in our society.

“This day reminds us of the great blessing of Allah Almighty through which humanity was granted the perfect path of faith, guidance, justice, mercy and noble character,” he added.

Meanwhile, PM Shehbaz said that in order to overcome the economic, social and moral challenges confronting the country, “we must mould our collective lives in accordance with the perfect guidance provided by Islam”, the state broadcaster reported.

The prime minister called for playing a role in making Pakistan a strong, prosperous, peaceful and welfare state.

In a separate post on X, he said that the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) “remain an eternal source of guidance for all humanity — calling us towards compassion, justice, tolerance, unity and service to others”.

“Let us pledge to illuminate our character and collective conduct with the light of Seeratun Nabi and work together for a peaceful, and prosperous Pakistan,” he said.

Muslims around the world celebrate the birth of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) on the 12th of Rabiul Awwal — the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar.