Tragic Roof Collapse at Novi Sad Railway Station
A devastating incident occurred on Friday at the newly renovated Novi Sad railway station in northern Serbia, resulting in the deaths of at least eight individuals. The tragedy unfolded when part of the external roof of the station collapsed, prompting immediate rescue operations. Interior Minister Ivica Dacic confirmed the fatalities and reported that two additional people were hospitalized, one in critical condition after suffering severe injuries, including the amputation of both legs. The rescue efforts, involving over 80 rescuers, are ongoing as they work to reach individuals still trapped beneath the debris.
Investigation Launched into Safety Failures
The Serbian government has expressed deep concern over the incident, with Prime Minister Milos Vucevic vowing a thorough investigation to determine the causes of the roof collapse. He emphasized the need to hold accountable those responsible for ensuring the safety of the structure. This incident has raised significant questions about infrastructure safety, particularly as the Novi Sad railway station had only recently reopened in July after extensive renovations, which lasted three years. Notably, Serbian Railways has stated that the collapsed roof was not part of the renovation work, further complicating the inquiry into the tragedy.
Community Mourning and Response
The collapse has left the community in shock, with Prime Minister Vucevic describing it as a 'black Friday' for Serbia and the city of Novi Sad. Videos circulating on social media depict a chaotic scene, with multiple ambulances and rescue vehicles present at the site. As the rescue operations continue, the focus remains on providing support to the victims' families and ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again in the future.
