Devastating Collapse at Novi Sad Railway Station: At Least 14 Dead
A tragic incident occurred at the Novi Sad railway station in northern Serbia, resulting in at least 14 casualties, as reported by the country’s President Aleksandar Vučić. The incident, which took place around noon local time, led to the collapse of a concrete canopy.
Detailed Accident Report
On Friday, a concrete canopy overhang at the train station in Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, collapsed suddenly. Eye-witnesses reported that people were sitting on benches under the outdoor overhang at the time of the accident. Recovering three people from under the rubble hours later, two of whom were women pulled alive, brings some glimmer of hope.
Casualties and Injuries
According to the President’s statement, the official count of dead stands at 14, with five of the victims still unidentified. The casualties include a six or seven-year-old girl, emphasizing the severity and heartache caused by the tragedy. Among the survivors, two women were rescued alive from the debris.
Search and Rescue Operations
Authorities reported extensive search and rescue operations, involving around 80 rescuers from all over the country. Utilizing heavy machinery, the effort is still ongoing to extract any remaining individuals entangled under the fallen structure.
Stands on 5 July
The railway station building underwent renovations twice in the recent past; once in 2021 and again for this year’s official opening on July 5. However, substance interviews with Serbian infrastructure bodies reveal that the concrete canopy was independently built in 1964.
Government’s Reaction
Following the disaster, Prime Minister Miloš Vučević addressed the severity of the situation. Friday was described as one of the most difficult days in Novi Sad’s post-war history. PM Vučević extended condolences to the families of the victims and praised the efforts of the first responders.
Additionally, the government has declared Saturday an official day of mourning for the victims.
Call to Action
Readers are respectfully asked to keep the families of the victims in their thoughts and prayers. If you or someone you know is aware of any information or insights related to this tragic event, please provide detailed reports to local authorities.
