Incident on Novi Sad-Belgrade Fast Train

An alarming incident aboard the Soko fast train traveling from Novi Sad to Belgrade has raised concerns about the safety and reliability of Serbia's flagship high-speed rail project. Passengers recounted a terrifying experience on Thursday morning as the train violently shook, nearly derailing outside Zemun and throwing passengers to the floor.

The panic was palpable, with reports of female conductors crying out in distress. Fortunately, the driver's quick action stabilized the train, allowing it to reach Belgrade's main railway station. Onboard medical assistance was provided to some passengers, highlighting the immediate impact of the near-disaster.

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The train shook at high speed, throwing some of them to the floor. They added that the female conductors cried out in panic.

While Serbian Railways attributed the issue to problems with rail joints, the incident casts a shadow over the Soko train, a key component of the government's ambitious project to connect Serbia with Hungary via high-speed rail. The line itself, inaugurated with much fanfare by President Aleksandar Vučić and then-Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, has reportedly faced previous issues.

From a Serbian perspective, this incident is more than just a technical malfunction; it's a stark reminder of the challenges in rapidly developing critical infrastructure. While the government touts these projects as symbols of progress and modernization, events like this underscore the need for rigorous safety checks and maintenance. International coverage might focus on the technological aspect, but for Serbians, it's about the everyday safety and reliability of services that are meant to improve their lives and connect the country.

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Serbian Railways staff told them there was a problem with rail joints.