Faulty Wire Led to Lisbon Funicular Crash, Probe Reveals

The deadly funicular accident in Portugal's capital that took 16 lives in the start of the ninth month was attributed to a defective wire, per the official investigation released on the start of the week.

The probe has advised that Portugal's capital's similar cable cars stay halted until their security can be fully confirmed.

Particulars of the Deadly Incident

This crash took place when the 19th-century Elevador da Glória left the rails and crashed into a edifice, stunning the city and highlighting grave worries about the security of ageing landmarks.

Portugal's transport safety authority (GPIAAF) reported that a cable joining two cabins had detached shortly before the incident on September 3rd.

Preliminary Findings

The initial report indicated that the line was not up to the mandatory specifications outlined by the local public transport company.

The line was not in compliance with the specifications in force to be utilized for the Glória cable car.

This 35-page document further advised that all inclined railways in the city should be kept non-operational until experts can confirm they have sufficient brakes able of halting the cars in the event of a cable break.

Fatalities and Injuries

Of the sixteen fatalities, eleven were international visitors, including three UK nationals, two citizens of South Korea, two citizens of Canada, one Frenchwoman, a Swiss, an US national, and a Ukrainian.

This accident also injured approximately twenty persons, including 3 Britons.

Among the local fatalities comprised 4 staff members from the equivalent welfare organization, whose offices are positioned at the top of the sheer side road used by the inclined railway.

Operational Details

The Glória began operation in 1885, utilizing a system of counterweights to drive its two compartments along its long path climbing and descending a steep slope.

Based on investigators, a regular inspection on the date of the crash found no anomalies with the cable that eventually failed.

This experts also stated that the operator had engaged the vehicle's stopping mechanism, but they were incapable to prevent the car without the assistance of the weight compensation system.

This whole crash occurred in only less than a minute, according to the investigation.

Next Actions

This agency is scheduled to publish a final report with safety suggestions within the following twelve months, though an intermediary document may offer more details on the progress of the investigation.

Rebecca Lopez
Rebecca Lopez

An architect and travel writer with a passion for Italian landmarks and coastal architecture, sharing expert insights and personal experiences.