**Massive Protests Erupt in Serbia Following Tragic Infrastructure Disaster**

The largest demonstration in Serbia's history brings together citizens frustrated with government corruption and ineffective leadership.

Hundreds of thousands of Serbians took to the streets of Belgrade on Saturday, joining what has been termed the largest protest in the country's history, following the tragic deaths of 15 individuals in a railway station collapse last November. While the Serbian government estimated attendance at around 107,000, independent sources claimed that between 275,000 to 325,000 protesters gathered, showcasing widespread public outrage directed at President Aleksandar Vucic's administration.

The collapse of the Novi Sad station's roof has intensified long-standing frustrations regarding corruption and a perceived lack of accountability in the government. Vucic, who presided over the station's recent renovation, faced accusations that negligence and corner-cutting decisions contributed to the disaster, prompting citizens to rally under the banner of reform and justice.

In a national address, Vucic praised the police and reiterated his commitment to maintaining order, asserting that he comprehends the protesters' sentiments but firmly declared his intention to remain in power despite mounting pressures. Many attendees voiced their desire for functional institutions and justice, emphasizing that political affiliation was irrelevant to their demands for a more accountable government.

The "15th for 15" protest unfolded in key locations throughout the city, drawing diverse participants including students, lawyers, farmers, and taxi drivers, all united in their calls for transparency regarding the tragedy. During the demonstration, protesters paid tribute to the victims by illuminating their mobile phones for fifteen minutes, symbolizing their mourning and solidarity.

While the protests sparked additional resilience among students and various worker groups, there were reports of violence, with 22 arrests and multiple injuries occurring amidst the unrest. Calls for accountability have intensified as some politicians have resigned amid ongoing demonstrations, although the students and citizens alike have expressed frustration over superficial changes and the absence of substantial progress.

One student participant voiced determination, stating, "We're making progress, but none of our demands have been completely met." Many protesters are steadfast in their pursuit of comprehensive investigations into the station collapse, as public pressure mounts on the government to provide concrete answers and reforms.

Amidst a backdrop of political instability, Vucic continues to maintain that the current order must not yield to public dissent. With the opposition party's influence remaining contentious in the media and governmental frameworks, the outcome of these protests ultimately hinges on the government's responsiveness to the people's calls for justice and accountability, as the organizers vow to continue their demands until satisfactory reforms are in place.