A collapse at a railway station in Novi Sad, Serbia, has resulted in at least 14 deaths and over 30 injuries, prompting ongoing rescue operations and a day of mourning declared by Prime Minister Miloš Vučević.

The tragic roof collapse, occurring just months after a major renovation was completed, raises urgent questions about public safety standards in Serbian infrastructure. Interior Minister Ivica Dačić confirmed the latest death toll as rescue operations continue, with nearly 80 rescuers deployed on-site. Prime Minister Vučević’s declaration of a national day of mourning underscores the profound impact of this disaster on the community and reflects the government's commitment to hold those responsible accountable.

The collapse happened at a busy train station in the northern city of Novi Sad, a major transportation hub. The roof fell suddenly, causing a large section of the structure to crumple under the weight, where many people were present at the time. Surveillance camera footage captured the moments leading up to the disaster, highlighting the sheer unpredictability of the event.

Rescue operations began immediately after the emergency call was received, with teams arriving at the scene within minutes. These operations are being led by local authorities, along with specialized rescue teams. The priority remains on locating any remaining survivors, with rescuers currently in contact with two individuals who are believed to be trapped under the rubble.

So far, two survivors have been successfully rescued from the debris and are receiving treatment in a hospital. Their conditions have not yet been disclosed, but the quick action of emergency services has reportedly played a crucial role in their survival. In total, more than 30 individuals have been reported injured, with some sustaining serious injuries necessitating immediate medical attention.

As the rescue efforts continue, the scene at the train station is one of urgency and determination. Rescuers have worked tirelessly, often in grueling conditions, to ensure that every possible effort is made to locate and save anyone still trapped beneath the fallen structure. The rescue operation is expected to take several more hours as they navigate through the wreckage to secure the area and thoroughly search for additional victims.

Prime Minister Vučević's day of mourning is a significant acknowledgment of the lives lost and the impact this tragedy has had on families and the community. In a statement, he extended condolences to the families of the victims, emphasizing the emotional toll such an incident can have on a populace. The government has promised that a thorough investigation will take place to uncover the reasons behind the roof's collapse.

The roof that collapsed was originally built in 1964. This raises concerns about the integrity of the construction and the maintenance of public structures in Serbia. Authorities are now under scrutiny to assess the safety standards that were in place during the recent renovation and to investigate the cause of the collapse.

The investigation will focus on multiple aspects, including the materials used in construction, structural assessments made prior to the renovation, and ongoing maintenance efforts. Such scrutiny aims to ensure similar incidents do not recur in the future, as public safety is paramount.

Additionally, the high-speed rail connection between Novi Sad and Belgrade, which opened in March 2022, has heightened the importance of safe transportation infrastructure across Serbia. In light of this tragic event, the government may need to reevaluate funding allocations and safety protocols to restore public confidence in rail travel.

In summary, the roof collapse at the Novi Sad railway station not only represents a significant loss of life but also showcases the urgent need for comprehensive reviews of public infrastructure security in Serbia. As rescue operations proceed, the nation holds its breath, hoping for the discovery of more survivors while grappling with the profound loss experienced by the affected families.