A tragic incident in northern Serbia has resulted in the deaths of at least 14 individuals following the collapse of a concrete canopy at a railway station, as reported by President Aleksandar Vučić. Among the deceased is a young girl estimated to be between six and seven years old. The incident occurred around noon local time when people were seated under the outdoor overhang at the Novi Sad station, the country’s second-largest city.
Currently, three individuals remain hospitalized, including two women who were rescued from beneath the debris several hours after the accident. In his address to the nation, President Vučić expressed hope that the death toll would not increase beyond 14 and noted that five of those killed have yet to be identified. He assured the public that those responsible for this tragedy would face consequences.
Rescue efforts involve approximately 80 personnel from across Serbia, utilizing heavy machinery as they continue to search for any survivors. The railway station itself underwent renovations in 2021 and was set for another round of improvements this year, with an official reopening planned for July 5. Reports indicate that the concrete canopy, which collapsed, was not part of these renovations; it was originally constructed in 1964 by Railway Infrastructure of Serbia.
Prime Minister Miloš Vučević described Friday as one of the most challenging days in Novi Sad’s post-war history, calling it a profound tragedy for both the city and the entire nation. He extended his condolences to the victims' families and expressed gratitude toward first responders who acted swiftly during this crisis. In response to the devastating event, the government has declared Saturday an official day of mourning.
As rescue operations continue, several individuals have tragically lost their lives while many rescuers remain engaged in searching for survivors amid the rubble. Furthermore, on another note related to regional transport developments, plans are underway to close sections between East Kilbride and Glasgow as part of an electrification project, with local councils approving necessary funding arrangements to advance this initiative.