Students and citizens continued protests in Novi Sad, blocking the Freedom Bridge and other key roads to mark three months since the collapse of the Novi Sad Railway Station canopy, which claimed 15 lives. Demonstrators are demanding accountability from authorities and justice for the victims, while a public assembly is expected to decide on the continuation of the blockade.
The protest began with local students but grew as a large group of students from Belgrade walked for two days to join them. Various groups of citizens have also joined, leading to massive traffic disruptions. Reports estimate that tens of thousands of people participated in the demonstrations, with additional protests spreading to other cities, including Niš and Čačak, where bridges were also blocked in solidarity.
Amid the largely peaceful protests, tensions have risen. A medical student, Ana V., who was previously assaulted by ruling party activists, attended the blockade in a show of defiance. Meanwhile, elderly citizens, including 74-year-old Ilija Kostić, who was allegedly beaten during previous demonstrations, have expressed their support for the students.
Political divisions have emerged within the movement. The Philosophy Faculty student assembly in Belgrade distanced itself from the 24-hour blockade, citing concerns over potential political influence. The ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) has denied accusations of orchestrating counter-protests or disruptions, while Novi Sad’s mayor, Miloš Vučević, warned that the bridge blockades could symbolically signal a division between Vojvodina and the rest of Serbia.
Despite the cold weather, demonstrators have shown resilience, with locals preparing food for protesters and tractor-driving farmers expressing support. One unusual moment saw a newlywed bride arriving at the protest to throw her bouquet to student demonstrators.
International media, including AFP and AP, have reported on the protests, highlighting growing public frustration over corruption and government accountability. Analysts speculate that the unrest could push President Aleksandar Vučić to consider early elections.
The protests remain ongoing, with a final decision on the continuation of blockades expected later today.