In the northern city of Novi Sad, a concrete canopy at the railway station unexpectedly collapsed on Friday, tragically resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals, including a 6-year-old girl, and injuring three others. In response, protesters in Belgrade have expressed their outrage by leaving red handprints at government buildings, calling for the arrest of officials responsible for the disaster.
Thousands gathered outside the Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure, demanding the resignation of top government officials, including Prime Minister Milos Vucevic. Protester Ivan Bjelic emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “Our demand is that Goran Vesić, the Minister of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure, resigns because this is his responsibility. In normal countries, this is what happens.”
The collapse occurred suddenly, impacting individuals seated on benches or entering the station. The injured, aged between 18 and 24, required amputations as a result of the incident. Funerals for the victims, which drew large crowds, have been held throughout northern Serbia.
Critics attribute the catastrophe to systemic issues such as corruption, lack of oversight, and poorly executed renovations, despite the train station having undergone two renovations in recent years as part of a larger project involving Chinese construction firms.
Liberal politician Biljana Stojković remarked, “Citizens no longer have anything to lose and are increasingly aware of this. This is grief intertwined with anger, despair that is turning into rage.”
While the populist government has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation—reportedly questioning over two dozen individuals—many critics remain skeptical about the potential for true accountability, citing concerns about the government’s influence over the judicial system and law enforcement.