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This tragic funicular crash in Lisbon that claimed sixteen lives in the beginning of September was caused by a damaged wire, as stated by the authoritative inquiry published on the start of the week.

The inquiry has urged that Lisbon's equivalent cable cars stay non-operational until their safety can be thoroughly assured.

Particulars of the Tragic Accident

This collision took place when the 19th-century Glória funicular derailed and collided into a structure, stunning the metropolis and sparking serious worries about the safety of ageing tourist attractions.

Portugal's accident investigation agency (the investigative body) noted that a line connecting two compartments had disconnected just before the crash on the third of September.

Early Findings

The preliminary report stated that the wire was not up to the specified specifications established by the urban transit authority.

The cable was not in compliance with the requirements currently applicable to be used for the Glória funicular.

This detailed document additionally advised that the remaining funiculars in the capital ought to remain suspended until inspectors can ensure they have sufficient brakes able of immobilising the cabins in the event of a cable break.

Victims and Harm

Of the sixteen victims, eleven were non-Portuguese citizens, featuring three UK individuals, two citizens of South Korea, two citizens of Canada, one citizen of France, a citizen of Switzerland, an US national, and a citizen of Ukraine.

This accident also hurt about twenty individuals, comprising 3 UK nationals.

The local casualties comprised 4 employees from the same welfare organization, whose workplace are situated at the summit of the sharp side road serviced by the inclined railway.

Historical Information

This Glória funicular began operation in the late 19th century, using a mechanism of counterweights to propel its 2 cars along its 870-foot path climbing and descending a precipitous slope.

According to investigators, a regular examination on the morning of the incident found no issues with the wire that eventually failed.

This experts also noted that the driver had engaged the cable car's braking system, but they were incapable to prevent the car without the assistance of the weight compensation system.

This whole incident occurred in merely under a minute, as stated by the probe.

Next Steps

This investigative body is scheduled to release a definitive document with operational recommendations within the coming year, though an interim report may provide additional updates on the development of the investigation.