Roof Collapse at Novi Sad Train Station Claims 14 Lives, Many Injured

A devastating tragedy struck the city of Novi Sad in northern Serbia on Friday when the roof of a railway station collapsed, resulting in the deaths of at least 14 people and injuring over 30 others. Rescue teams swiftly responded, with nearly 80 personnel working through the night to search for survivors trapped under the rubble. Serbia’s Interior Minister, Ivica Dačić, confirmed the death toll and expressed his condolences to those affected, adding that two survivors are currently hospitalized.

The collapse occurred just three months after the station had reopened following extensive renovations completed in July. Local media report that the building had undergone major roof work in 2021, raising questions about structural integrity. Serbian Prime Minister Miloš Vučević, addressing the nation on state television, pledged that those accountable for the disaster would face consequences. “The responsible will be punished,” he said, vowing a thorough investigation.

Residents of Novi Sad gathered outside the station, lighting candles to honor the victims, while the Serbian government declared Saturday a national day of mourning. Rescue workers remain in contact with two additional individuals trapped within the debris, with efforts ongoing to bring them to safety. The disaster has brought national and international attention to the challenges of infrastructure safety and the devastating impact of structural failures.