Collapse of Canopy at Novi Sad Railway Station: A Tragedy Highlighting Travel Safety Issues

The recent collapse of a concrete canopy at the Novi Sad railway station has drawn attention to passenger safety in public spaces. This tragic incident, which claimed the lives of 14 people, including a young child, sparked public outrage. Residents and activists are demanding the resignation of key government officials and a transparent investigation to ensure the safety of those using public transportation. Among the survivors are three young people with severe injuries, including amputations, underscoring the potentially grave consequences of inadequate infrastructure safety oversight.

Thousands of protesters gathered outside the Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure, calling on authorities to take responsible action, including implementing measures to improve transport safety. Citizens argue that systemic corruption and poor-quality work expose passengers to preventable risks that could be mitigated with stricter and more transparent safety controls. Activists emphasize that accountability for such incidents lies not only with specific contractors but also with national leaders, who are responsible for ensuring the reliability and safety of travel infrastructure.

Concerns Over Infrastructure Safety and Government Promises for Investigation

The Novi Sad railway station, where the collapse occurred, has undergone two renovations in recent years. However, critics argue that the quality of the work was substandard. Many believe that corruption and negligence toward safety create potential hazards for passengers. This incident serves as a stark example of how a lack of proper oversight and adherence to safety standards can endanger the lives of people who rely on rail transport for travel.

In response to public pressure, the Serbian government has announced a large-scale investigation and has already questioned more than two dozen individuals. However, doubts persist regarding the objectivity of the process, as critics claim that judicial and law enforcement agencies are under government influence. This raises concerns that the root causes of the incident may be concealed and that effective measures to ensure travel safety may never be implemented.

Public Discontent Over the State of Infrastructure and Protests in Belgrade

In Belgrade, citizens’ concerns over infrastructure safety are growing, especially among those who rely on public transportation daily. The incident in Novi Sad has signaled to many that infrastructure does not meet adequate safety standards, creating risks for everyone who travels or moves around the country. These protests highlight serious issues in the management of public projects and reflect the population’s concern over infrastructure safety, calling on authorities to implement reforms to ensure safe travel for all residents and visitors.