Defective Wire Led to Portuguese Capital Funicular Crash, Probe Determines

This deadly cable car incident in Lisbon that claimed sixteen lives in the beginning of September was attributed to a faulty line, per the official investigation published on Monday.

This investigation has advised that Lisbon's similar transports remain out of service until their security can be thoroughly verified.

Specifics of the Devastating Event

The collision took place when the historic Glória cable car derailed and smashed into a building, horrifying the metropolis and highlighting grave concerns about the safety of older tourist attractions.

The country's accident investigation agency (the investigative body) noted that a wire linking two cabins had come loose shortly before the crash on September 3rd.

Early Findings

The initial analysis indicated that the wire failed to meet the specified requirements outlined by the local transport operator.

The cable did not comply with the requirements in force to be used for the Glória tram.

This comprehensive analysis further recommended that all inclined railways in the capital ought to stay non-operational until inspectors can ensure they have sufficient brakes able of immobilising the cars in the scenario of a cable break.

Fatalities and Casualties

Of the 16 victims, 11 were non-Portuguese citizens, featuring 3 British nationals, 2 South Koreans, two citizens of Canada, one citizen of France, a Swiss national, an American, and one citizen of Ukraine.

The crash also harmed around 20 people, including three British citizens.

Among the national victims featured 4 workers from the same social care institution, whose offices are located at the peak of the sheer side road used by the inclined railway.

Historical Information

The Elevador da Glória first opened in 1885, utilizing a mechanism of weight compensation to move its two compartments along its 870-foot path ascending and descending a precipitous hill.

Based on the bureau, a regular check on the date of the accident found no issues with the wire that eventually snapped.

This probers also noted that the driver had engaged the funicular's brakes, but they were incapable to halt the carriage without the assistance of the balancing mechanism.

This complete crash transpired in only 50 seconds, per the investigation.

Future Actions

The investigative body is anticipated to publish a definitive document with operational guidelines within the following twelve months, though an intermediary document may provide more updates on the development of the inquiry.

Teresa Stone
Teresa Stone

Lena ist eine erfahrene Journalistin mit Schwerpunkt auf politischen und gesellschaftlichen Themen in Deutschland.