A tragic incident at the train station in Novi Sad, Serbia, has resulted in the deaths of at least 14 individuals, as confirmed by President Aleksandar Vucic in a recent address to the nation. The catastrophe occurred around noon on Friday when a section of the roof collapsed suddenly while numerous people were present inside the station. Footage captured by surveillance cameras shows a typical day at the station, with commuters moving about and resting on benches, moments before the concrete structure gave way, leading to chaos and devastation as individuals were trapped beneath the debris.
Emergency services were quickly mobilized in response to the crisis, with reports indicating that approximately 30 people sustained injuries, some of which are severe. Serbian Interior Minister Ivica Dacic provided updates on the situation, noting that at least three of the victims were rescued and hospitalized in critical conditions. The government has declared Saturday as a day of mourning for the victims, highlighting the somber reality of the loss and the need for national healing in the wake of this disaster.
Investigation into the cause of the roof’s collapse is still ongoing. President Vucic emphasized the importance of accountability, assuring the public that all those responsible for ensuring the safety of the building would face consequences. This incident raises serious questions about building safety and maintenance protocols, especially considering that the railway station had undergone renovations in 2021 and was officially reopened earlier this year in July.
In the aftermath of the incident, rescue and cleanup operations are actively underway. Footage from the scene shows a considerable presence of emergency workers and medical personnel, as well as police officers maintaining order and directing the rescue efforts. Cranes have been deployed to assist in clearing the rubble and recovering any remaining victims, underscoring the intensity of the situation and the urgency of the rescue operations.
Local and international responses have poured in, including condolences from Russian President Vladimir Putin to President Vucic, reflecting the wider shock and sympathy surrounding the tragedy. The incident has not only affected the immediate community in Novi Sad but has resonated throughout Serbia and beyond, highlighting the vulnerabilities in infrastructure that can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
Moving forward, the focus will inevitably shift towards a thorough investigation into building practices and safety regulations in Serbia to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. The collapse of the roof at Novi Sad’s train station serves as a grim reminder of the critical importance of maintaining infrastructure and adhering to safety standards, especially in public transport hubs where lives are routinely at stake. As the nation mourns, it also seeks assurance that measures will be taken to protect its citizens and restore trust in public infrastructure.
