Serbia investigates deadly roof collapse at Novi Sad train station

Serbia has launched a comprehensive investigation following a tragic roof collapse at the Novi Sad railway station, which resulted in the deaths of 14 people, including two children, and left three others injured.

The collapse occurred on Friday, 1, trapping victims under debris, as rescue teams worked through the night to recover the dead and assist the wounded.

The Serbian government has appointed an inquiry team to examine the cause of the incident, focusing on the roles of the state Traffic Institute, Serbian Railways, and the Chinese consortium—China Railway International Co. Ltd and China Communications Construction Company (CRIC-CCCC)—which recently conducted renovations at the station.

Transport Minister Goran Vesic emphasised that the investigation would scrutinise the oversight, quality control, and decision-making processes involved in the renovation. Both the Transport Ministry and the consortium clarified that the collapsed area was not part of the recent construction work.

Interior Minister Ivica Dacic confirmed that approximately 20 individuals connected to the project would be questioned by authorities, including officials from the overseeing ministries. Additionally, documents related to the building’s inspection and safety protocols are being reviewed.

The collapse, which has shocked the Serbian public, led to a declaration of a national day of mourning.

Citizens visited the site on Saturday to lay flowers, light candles, and pay respects. “I am sorry about the people, and we should make sure something like this never happens again,” said a Novi Sad resident.

The Serbian opposition has called for a protest in Novi Sad, citing longstanding grievances about corruption, nepotism, and administrative inefficiency, which they believe contributed to the tragedy.

President Aleksandar Vucic, addressing the nation, called for justice and stringent accountability measures, vowing that those responsible would face severe consequences.

The three injured victims remain in intensive care at the University Clinical Center in Novi Sad.