Serbian Minister Resigns Amid Protests Following Train Station Collapse

A recent train station collapse in Serbia claimed 14 lives, sparking widespread protests. Citizens blame corruption and demand accountability for what they see as a preventable tragedy. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Protests erupted across Serbia following the Novi Sad train station collapse, which killed 14 people last week. Citizens gathered in Belgrade to demand accountability and voice frustration over suspected corruption.

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Construction Minister Goran Vesić resigned after initially denying responsibility. He claimed neither he nor his team should be blamed for the construction flaws that led to the collapse.

Public Outcry Following the Train Station Collapse

The train station collapse in Novi Sad, located northwest of Belgrade, has drawn significant attention to the issue of corruption in Serbia. Renovated twice recently, the station’s faulty construction allegedly resulted from secretive deals with foreign contractors.

Opposition figures and protestors accuse the government of cutting corners by partnering with international firms. They demand greater transparency and accountability in all future infrastructure projects to prevent similar tragedies.

Government Faces Mounting Pressure Over Train Station Collapse

This tragic train station collapse highlights alleged government negligence in maintaining safety standards. Critics claim that Serbia’s infrastructure decisions prioritize foreign partnerships over citizen safety, with secretive contracts leaving public projects vulnerable.

In his resignation speech, Vesić reviewed the station’s reconstruction timeline, pointing to unapproved documents submitted by construction firms during his term. He suggested prior officials and contractors bear responsibility for the collapse.

Opposition leader Radomir Lazović criticized Vesić’s role in Serbia’s public infrastructure management, calling for an audit of all projects completed under President Aleksandar Vučić. Lazović and other activists demand disclosure of contracts with foreign contractors, particularly those involving Chinese firms.

Originally built in 1964, the Novi Sad station was reopened in 2022, with President Vučić and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán hailing it as a crucial link on a proposed high-speed rail line between Belgrade and Budapest. But the collapse has underscored safety concerns and fueled demands for transparency in infrastructure investments.

Protests continue as Serbian citizens press for reforms to prevent similar incidents. Activists hope that this tragedy will bring about new policies prioritizing accountability and safety in government-funded projects.

Public dissatisfaction with infrastructure management has become a unifying cause for Serbian citizens, opposition leaders, and activists alike. They argue that prioritizing public welfare over political alliances is essential for Serbia’s future.

The collapse of Novi Sad station has intensified calls for a transparent construction policy. Many citizens demand a greater emphasis on safety, stricter oversight, and more responsible government spending.

This incident may signify a shift in public expectations around infrastructure in Serbia. Citizens hope the government will enact measures ensuring that future projects meet rigorous safety standards.

Opposition leaders remain dedicated to pushing for policy changes addressing public safety and transparency. They aim to prevent further losses in Serbia’s public infrastructure projects by holding officials accountable.

Serbian citizens view this incident as an urgent reminder of the need for reform. Many believe that by prioritizing safety, the government can rebuild public trust and improve infrastructure quality.

Vesić’s resignation has brought scrutiny to Serbia’s public works management. Protestors continue to push for safety improvements and transparency, with hopes of preventing similar tragedies.

Source: www.politico.eu

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