Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved a Star of Service and a cash prize of Rs 10 million for nurse Razia Noreen, who risked her life to save a child during the PIMS fire.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, this decision was taken in a meeting held on the interim report of the PIMS incident investigation committee. The initial investigation and CCTV footage of the incident were also presented in the meeting.
According to the investigation report, the fire engulfed the ward in a very short time. On this occasion, Nurse Razia Noreen took a child to a safe place despite the danger. According to the report, the nurse saved one of the 15 newborns in the ward before the fire spread.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif described Nurse Razia Noreen’s action as an example of duty and bravery. He said that the entire nation is proud of her for risking her life to save the child.
The Prime Minister said that it is necessary to encourage such dutiful individuals. According to him, Nurse Razia Noreen demonstrated responsibility and humanity in the most difficult situation.
The interim investigation into the PIMS fire has also raised important questions about the safety arrangements of the hospital. According to the briefing, there was no fire alarm and sprinkler system in the ward. There was also no specific officer posted in the hospital to deal with fire or other emergencies.
The investigation committee further said that emergency services were not called immediately after the fire broke out. The Prime Minister has directed to continue a full investigation into the incident and submit a detailed report.
The announcement of the Star of Service and a reward of Rs 10 million for Nurse Razia Noreen brings out a positive aspect of the incident. However, the questions raised regarding the safety arrangements at PIMS show that it is also necessary to improve the emergency system and safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
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