Serbia: At least 14 people, including a young girl, have died following the concrete canopy collapse at a railway station in Novi Sad, Serbia. The incident occurred around noon local time (11:00 GMT) while individuals were sitting under the outdoor overhang.
President Aleksandar Vucic affirmed the death toll and expressed hope that it would not increase, noting that five victims have yet to be identified. Among the injured, three individuals were hospitalised, including two women rescued from the rubble hours after the incident.
In a national address, Vucic ensured the public that those responsible for the tragedy would face consequences. He stated that, “Those responsible, I assure you, will be punished,” as around 80 rescuers, utilising heavy machinery, continued their search efforts.
The railway station, which experienced renovations in 2021 and again this year, was set to be officially opened on July 5. However, the canopy, built in 1964, had not been rebuilt during these updates, according to the Railway Infrastructure of Serbia.
Prime Minister Milos Vucevic conveyed the day as one of the most challenging in Novi Sad’s post-war history, emphasising the enormity of the tragedy. Milos Vucevic stated that, “This is a great tragedy for Novi Sad and for all of Serbia,” extending comfort to the victims’ families and expressing gratitude to first responders. In response to the disaster, the government has declared November 2nd an official day of mourning throughout the country.
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