A devastating roof collapse at a railway station in Novi Sad, Serbia, has claimed the lives of eight people, according to the country’s interior minister. The tragedy unfolded on Friday, leaving over 30 individuals injured.
Two survivors have been pulled from the rubble and rushed to the hospital, one of whom is in critical condition. Rescue teams are actively working to reach two more people reported to be trapped. Interior Minister Ivica Dacic confirmed that their communication with the trapped individuals is ongoing, and their safe extraction is a top priority.
The swift response of emergency services was remarkable, with rescuers arriving at the scene within minutes of the collapse. Nearly 80 first responders are tirelessly working to free those trapped, and the operation is expected to continue for several hours.
Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and extended his gratitude to the dedicated first responders. He emphasized that a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the cause of the collapse and ensure those responsible are held accountable.
Interview with Structural Safety Expert Dr. Ana Nikolic: Understanding the Tragic Roof Collapse in Novi Sad
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Nikolic. The recent roof collapse at the railway station in Novi Sad has devastated our community, claiming eight lives and injuring over 30. From your expertise in structural safety, can you explain what could lead to such a catastrophic event?
Dr. Ana Nikolic: Thank you for having me. Roof collapses can result from a variety of factors, including design flaws, inadequate materials, or extreme weather conditions. In this tragic incident, it’s essential to conduct a thorough investigation to pinpoint the exact cause. Structural integrity is paramount, and any weaknesses must be identified to prevent future occurrences.
Time.news Editor: Right. We know that emergency services responded remarkably quickly, with nearly 80 first responders on the scene. How crucial is their rapid response in such disasters?
Dr. Ana Nikolic: Rapid response is vital in rescue operations. The first few hours after a collapse are critical; the chances of survival decrease significantly as time passes. The swift actions of emergency services not only save lives but also demonstrate the effectiveness of pre-planned emergency protocols. Their professionalism and training are invaluable in chaotic situations like this.
Time.news Editor: Two survivors have been rescued, but two more individuals remain trapped. What challenges do rescue teams face in such scenarios, and how can they enhance their effectiveness?
Dr. Ana Nikolic: Rescuing individuals from a collapsed structure involves significant challenges. The stability of the remaining structure is one of the primary concerns. Teams often have to carefully remove debris while ensuring they don’t cause further collapses. Utilizing specialized equipment and techniques, such as sonar and thermal imaging, can improve the chances of locating and rescuing victims more quickly.
Time.news Editor: Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic has promised a thorough investigation into the causes of the collapse and accountability for those responsible. What should be the main focus of this investigation?
Dr. Ana Nikolic: The investigation needs to cover several areas: structural assessments, examination of building materials, compliance with safety regulations, and the extensive review of maintenance records. It’s also critical to consider whether any warning signs were ignored prior to the collapse. A transparent investigation assures the public that steps will be taken to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
Time.news Editor: Tragedies like this often raise questions about public safety regulations. What can building authorities and local governments do to improve safety standards at railway stations and other public infrastructure?
Dr. Ana Nikolic: Local governments and building authorities should prioritize strict enforcement of safety standards and regular inspections of public infrastructure. Implementing comprehensive risk assessments and considering the potential impacts of extreme weather patterns are essential. Additionally, training for engineers and construction workers in the latest safety practices can significantly enhance structural reliability.
Time.news Editor: What practical advice would you offer to communities in terms of preparedness and response in the wake of such disasters?
Dr. Ana Nikolic: Education and awareness are key. Communities should be informed about emergency procedures and create plans with local emergency services. Regular drills and safety training can save lives. Having a clear communication strategy during crises will also help families and individuals understand how to respond effectively.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Nikolic, for your insights on this heartbreaking event. It’s crucial that we learn from such incidents to strengthen our safety measures moving forward.
Dr. Ana Nikolic: Thank you for having this important conversation. It’s through discussing and addressing these issues that we can work towards a safer future for everyone.