Fatal tram accident in Sarajevo triggers days of public protests


SARAJEVO, Feb. 16 (Xinhua) -- Protests continued in Bosnia's capital Sarajevo for the fourth consecutive day on Monday following a fatal tram accident that killed a student and injured many others.

Demonstrators gathered in front of the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina before marching to the General Hospital in Sarajevo to express support for the victims.

Thousands of citizens joined the protests, demanding accountability and swift judicial action. Protesters put forward four key demands: full transparency of the investigation, withdrawal of unsafe vehicles, systemic accountability, and the establishment of a safe and high-quality public transportation system.

The fatal accident occurred on Feb. 12, when a speeding tram derailed and hit a station, killing a 23-year-old art student, injuring many others, including two seriously injured.

Nihad Uk, the chief of Sarajevo Canton, resigned on Sunday amid public pressure. The resignation placed the cantonal government in a "technical mandate," under which it continues routine operations but refrains from major strategic decisions.

While Sarajevo is currently modernizing its fleet with new trams, a significant number of older, second-hand trams, some dating back 40-60 years, have continued to serve alongside new vehicles.

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