Novi Sad, Serbia – Rescuers in Serbia concluded their search for survivors on Saturday after recovering 14 bodies from the debris of a collapsed canopy at the railway station in Novi Sad. The tragic incident occurred when the roof, which had previously undergone renovations, fell onto individuals seated beneath it. Among the deceased was a six-year-old girl from North Macedonia, with three others suffering serious injuries, as reported by Interior Minister Ivica Dacic.
In response to the tragedy, the Serbian government has proclaimed Saturday a national day of mourning and has committed to a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances leading to the disastrous roof collapse that transpired on Friday. Criticism has emerged against the populist government regarding the quality of renovations, with some attributing the incident to systemic corruption and negligence in construction practices. Opposition figures have announced intentions to demonstrate outside the railway station later today.
Government officials maintain that the canopy in question was not included in the renovation plan. Goran Vesic, the Minister of Construction and Infrastructure, stated in an interview with state broadcaster RTS that the calamity could have been avoided had the canopy been properly renovated along with the rest of the station.
Rescuers deployed approximately 80 personnel and heavy machinery, enduring several hours of labor to clear the substantial concrete blocks that fell during the incident, which took place just before midday on Friday. The rescue operations extended into the evening, showcasing the urgent efforts to locate any possible survivors.
In a show of solidarity, residents of Novi Sad gathered at the site of the tragedy, lighting candles and holding a vigil for the victims. Many individuals responded positively to a call for blood donations to assist those injured in the incident.
Surveillance footage captured moments prior to the collapse, revealing people frequently entering and exiting the station while occupying benches outside on a clear and sunny day before the catastrophic failure of the concrete structure occurred.
The railway station, which includes the canopy that collapsed, was originally constructed in 1964. Recent renovation efforts were undertaken by Chinese companies. This refurbished station was inaugurated over two years ago by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic alongside Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, marking it as a crucial point within a planned high-speed rail corridor connecting Belgrade to Budapest.
