Tens of thousands gathered yesterday to commemorate three months since the tragic collapse of a 300-ton canopy at the newly reconstructed Novi Sad Railway Station, which resulted in the deaths of fifteen people. Protests filled the air with noise, emotions ran high, and there was considerable walking and tears.

This year’s City Day, celebrated on February 1st, was marked by a somber atmosphere. Many citizens expressed their discontent, stating there was nothing to celebrate, as no one has been held accountable for the tragedy. In response to the students’ call to action – “Enough of the silence, February 1st on three bridges,” the protests commenced.

From 3 PM to 6 PM, the Varadinski, Žeželjev, and Most Slobode bridges were blocked in Novi Sad. Eventually, protesters liberated the first two bridges and directed their attention to Most Slobode, which is slated for a 24-hour blockade continuing until 3 PM today.

Crowds Throughout the Day

Congestion was evident across the city and on major routes leading to Novi Sad by 11 AM. Citizens experienced long travel times, stuck in traffic, with train delays prompting police to implement traffic redirection measures even before noon.

Students gathered at their respective faculties prior to commencing street blockades around 2 PM. Many onlookers, including passersby, expressed their support through applauses and cheers, leading to emotional responses among the demonstrators.

Colleagues from the University of Belgrade joined the protest, arriving in Novi Sad after a two-day trek. They exchanged flags with the local students on the Varadin Bridge, receiving enthusiastic responses from many Novi Sad residents. After laying wreaths in memory of the fifteen victims, they spent the night in designated areas at local faculties.

“A Civil Rebellion of All of Serbia”

Marko Todorović traveled from Gračanica near Pristina to be part of the protest, determined not to miss this significant moment in history.

He told DW that the security situation in Kosovo had previously hindered his participation in the student demonstrations of 96/97, and he lamented missing the October 5th Revolution. “I came to support students and citizens. This is no longer just a student protest; it represents a civil rebellion across Serbia and a quest for a functional state. I anticipate the end of this regime; though I don’t know when, retreat is not an option – Serbia is regressing,” Todorović stated.

Uroš, a Political Science student from Mali Zvornik, joined the protest to assist fellow students who have been demanding accountability for the past two months. He acknowledged that while he doesn’t believe the blockade alone would lead to the fulfillment of their demands, it would strongly signal their ongoing commitment to fighting for change.

“I’m Here Today So I Won’t Be an Aunt from America”

Out of concern for structural integrity, most participants avoided crossing the Freedom Bridge, gathering primarily in the city center. Citizens distributed water, pastries, and hot meals from donation trucks, with food supplies continuously arriving.

Among the crowd was Nataša Prohas Kavanović, a lawyer who prepared meals for the protesters, ensuring that no one went hungry. “I’m fighting this disaster and want all the students’ demands fulfilled. Resignations are secondary; our focus must be on accountability and ensuring our institutions function under the rule of law,” she shared with DW.

Families played in Limanski Park, while young people engaged in volleyball, cards, and created a lively atmosphere with vuvuzelas and whistles. Some even brought sleeping bags and tents for an extended stay.

“I’m here today so that tomorrow I won’t be an aunt from America,” a medical student explained as she joined the protest.

Anja, a 20-year-old journalism student from Novi Sad, expressed her commitment to the cause as she played board games with friends, stating, “If we want change, it has to start with us.”

A Generation of Hope

Farmers contributed to the blockade with their tractors, and a notable group of 400 cyclists arrived simultaneously from Belgrade to join the protest.

Many attendees remarked that “students possess enormous driving force,” having awakened a sense of urgency and engagement from a previously lethargic state.

“For the first time in 24 years, I feel like I’m part of something significant regarding social involvement. My generation has accomplished more in a few months than any before us,” said Andrija, one of the attendees.

“No movement has ever generated such pure energy as the students. That’s a significant reason why people are here tonight,” he added.

A friend, wishing to remain anonymous, echoed his sentiments. “This uprising is led by a generation previously deemed a failure, and there’s nothing more crucial we can do at this moment.” She continued, “After decades of silence, these voices are saying enough is enough. Even if fulfilling the demands is all we achieve, it’s a crucial step in dismantling this vast structure of corruption and crime,” the student noted.

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