At least eight individuals have lost their lives following a catastrophic incident at the railway station in Novi Sad, Serbia, where a concrete roof above the entrance collapsed. This unfortunate event has also left at least two others hospitalized with serious injuries, as reported by Serbian Interior Minister Ivica Dacic.
Ongoing Rescue Operations
Rescue teams are currently working tirelessly to reach two individuals believed to be trapped under the debris. Minister Dacic stated, “The operation is still ongoing and extremely challenging. Over 80 rescuers are involved, with the assistance of heavy machinery.” Emergency responders and ambulances were quickly dispatched to the scene, and bulldozers are actively clearing the wreckage in search of any potential survivors.
Surveillance footage from the station captured the moments before the collapse, showing people moving about and sitting on benches in the sunny weather, unaware of the imminent danger.
Renovated Station Reopened Recently
The station, which is the second-largest in Serbia, had only recently reopened in July after undergoing three years of renovation work, with some construction still ongoing. Dacic described the rescue operation as “extremely hard,” indicating it may take several more hours to complete.
In light of the tragedy, the Blood Transfusion Institute in Novi Sad has issued a call for local residents to donate blood to assist those affected.
Authorities Promise Investigation
Prime Minister Milos Vucevic expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and assured the public that an investigation into the incident would be conducted. He emphasized, “We will insist on finding those responsible, those who should have ensured the structure’s safety. This is a black Friday for us, for all of Serbia, for Novi Sad.”
In a statement, Serbia Railways clarified that the outdoor roof that collapsed was not part of the recent renovations. The collapse occurred at approximately 11:50 AM local time (10:50 GMT).
Local media reports indicate that potentially dozens were injured in the incident, though the mayor’s office has yet to confirm the total number of injuries. Train services have been halted from the station, located about 70 kilometers (43 miles) northwest of the capital, Belgrade.
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