On November 1, 2024, a concrete canopy at the Novi Sad’s main railway station collapsed around noon local time. The 115-foot structure’s sudden downfall led to the tragic loss of 14 lives and critically injured three individuals.
The incident took place while passengers were seated under the outdoor overhang of the transport hub in Serbia’s second-largest city. After hours of concerted efforts, two women were successfully pulled out from the debris by emergency responders.
In a national address, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić confirmed the death of a six-year-old girl among the victims. “Those responsible will be punished,” Vučić assured his countrymen.
Between 2021 and 2022, the station underwent renovations at a cost of about $17.3 million. However, both Serbian Railways Infrastructure and the Chinese construction consortium, who were in charge of the renovations, stated that the recently collapsed canopy, built initially in 1964, was not part of the reconstruction work.
Goran Vesić, the Infrastructure Minister, further verified that the building permit for the recent renovations did not include any changes to the external awning.
Approximately 80 rescue workers from across Serbia were involved in the search and recovery operation, using heavy machinery to clear the debris. The three survivors were reportedly in intensive care at the University Clinical Center in Novi Sad.
Prime Minister Miloš Vučević referred to the event as one of the most challenging days in Novi Sad’s post-war history. The government declared Saturday, November 2, as an official day of mourning.
The Novi Sad Higher Public Prosecutor’s Office has started an investigation, conducting interviews with over 20 individuals, including the Transport Minister and officials from the state railways operator.
Surveillance footage shows the structure’s sudden collapse on a clear day. Train services at the station were temporarily halted as investigators looked into the incident.
Interior Minister Ivica Dačić suggested that the casualty count might not rise much further as rescue teams continue their operations at the site.