On November 1, 2024, a devastating incident occurred in Novi Sad, Serbia, when the roof of a railway station collapsed, resulting in 14 fatalities and injuring over 30 individuals. The tragedy unfolded around noon local time, with eyewitnesses describing a loud rumble followed by a cloud of dust as the concrete structure gave way while people were seated beneath it.
REUTERS
Incident Details
Time and Location: The collapse happened at approximately 11:50 AM at the railway station in Novi Sad, located about 70 kilometers (43 miles) northwest of Belgrade.
Casualties: Among the deceased were a six-year-old girl and a citizen from North Macedonia. Reports indicated that several individuals remained hospitalized, with at least three in critical condition.
Rescue Operations: Rescue teams, comprising over 80 personnel, worked tirelessly through the rubble using heavy machinery to search for survivors. By evening, two women trapped under the debris were successfully rescued but were reported to be in critical condition.
Government Response
Serbian Interior Minister Ivica Dačić described the event as “one huge accident,” expressing fears that the death toll could rise as rescue efforts continued. Prime Minister Miloš Vučević declared November 2 a national day of mourning and emphasized the need for accountability regarding the structural safety of the station. He noted that the roof had been built in 1964, and an investigation was underway to determine what led to the collapse.
Background
The railway station had recently undergone renovations completed in July 2024 after three years of construction. However, officials clarified that the section of the roof that collapsed was not part of these renovations. Concerns have been raised by experts regarding whether recent construction work might have inadvertently affected the building’s structural integrity.
Community Reaction
In response to this tragedy, vigils were held across Novi Sad to honor the victims. Citizens expressed their grief and shock over the incident, with many lighting candles outside public buildings. President Aleksandar Vučić conveyed his condolences to the families affected and called for justice for those responsible for ensuring safety standards.
This incident has highlighted ongoing concerns about building safety regulations in Serbia and has prompted calls for thorough investigations into construction practices and accountability measures within public infrastructure projects.
