Fourteen dead in Serbia railway station canopy collapse

A devastating incident at a railway station in Novi Sad, Serbia, has resulted in the deaths of at least 14 people, including a young girl aged six or seven, according to President Aleksandar Vučić. The tragic collapse of a concrete canopy occurred around noon local time (11:00 GMT), while people were seated on benches beneath the outdoor overhang.

The scene of the incident has been described as chaotic, with rescue operations underway to search for any survivors. Three individuals remain hospitalized, among them two women who were rescued from the rubble several hours after the collapse. In a heartfelt address to the nation, President Vučić expressed his hope that the death toll would not exceed 14, though he noted that five of the deceased had yet to be identified.

“I assure you, those responsible will be punished,” Vučić stated, emphasizing the importance of accountability in the aftermath of this tragedy. The rescue operation has mobilized around 80 rescuers from across the country, equipped with heavy machinery, as they continue to search the wreckage for additional victims.

The railway station itself underwent renovations in 2021 and was scheduled for another reopening this July. Reports from Serbian media indicate that the concrete canopy, which collapsed, was not part of the recent renovations. Originally constructed in 1964, it was under the jurisdiction of Railway Infrastructure of Serbia, the organization responsible for the structure’s maintenance.

Prime Minister Miloš Vučević characterized the day of the incident as one of the most challenging in Novi Sad’s post-war history, expressing deep sorrow over the event. “This is a great, terrible tragedy for Novi Sad and for all of Serbia,” he stated, extending condolences to the families affected by this catastrophic event. In recognition of the gravity of the situation, the government has declared Saturday an official day of mourning.

Witnesses reported hearing a loud noise before the canopy gave way, sending debris crashing down onto those seated below. The incident has raised serious questions about safety standards and maintenance practices regarding public structures in Serbia. Investigations are likely to follow as officials seek to determine the cause of the collapse and hold accountable those responsible for the oversight of the canopy’s condition.

Local residents have expressed shock and grief at the loss of life and the impact on their community. Many gathered near the site of the disaster, paying their respects to the victims and offering support to one another in this time of tragedy. The emotional toll of such a sudden and tragic event is palpable, and many are calling for thorough investigations to ensure that such an incident does not occur again.

As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on providing support to the families of those affected. Mental health resources are likely to be needed in the community as people grapple with the aftermath of this catastrophe. The loss of life, particularly of innocent individuals such as the young girl, has left a deep scar on the community.

In the days to come, the government and relevant agencies will need to address the findings of the investigation transparently, ensuring that safety measures are strengthened to prevent future tragedies. The tragic collapse of the railway station canopy serves as a grim reminder of the importance of ongoing maintenance and rigorous safety inspections for public infrastructure.

As the nation mourns the loss of life, the resilience of the community will be tested. With the support of first responders and the government, the people of Novi Sad will seek to honor the memory of those lost while working towards a safer future.