In the wake of a tragic incident in Novi Sad, Serbia, where a railway station canopy collapsed, the nation is grappling with demands for accountability and transparency. The government’s prompt announcement of a day of mourning underscores the gravity of Friday’s disaster which claimed the lives of 14 individuals.
Protesters assembled outside the government building in Belgrade over the weekend, symbolically displaying hands painted red to emphasize their call for justice amid allegations of corruption and negligence behind the collapse. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Ivica Dačić, shared that 26 individuals have already been questioned with coordination from the Criminal Police Directorate, and prosecutors are playing an active role in this investigative process.
Transport Minister Goran Vesic has expressed full cooperation with the ongoing police investigation, striving to unearth the reasons behind this catastrophic event. According to a Reuters report, this railway station has undergone significant renovations initiated by the government, Serbian Railways, and a Chinese consortium. However, concerns have arisen over the lack of documentation sharing by the consortium, leaving unresolved questions about responsibility.
The survivors of this grim incident, three in total, remain in critical condition in the hospital. Ivica Dačić provided insights into the coordinated rescue efforts, highlighting the collaboration of more than 80 rescuers who responded swiftly, utilizing equipment from city utilities and from the Ministry of the Interior.
As the investigation continues, the Serbian public remains vigilant, anticipating clarity and accountability in this unfortunate incident.
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