A snapped cable caused the fatal funicular crash in Lisbon that killed 16 people, as confirmed by investigators in a report released today. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, has prompted ongoing investigations into the cause and safety measures.
The crash took place when the cable connecting the two carriages of the Glória funicular suddenly gave way, causing the upper carriage to lose balance and accelerate uncontrollably down the steep incline. It derailed and collided with a building, resulting in immediate fatalities and injuries. Emergency services responded swiftly, but the devastation was severe, with debris scattered across the scene.
Investigation findings indicate that the brakeman promptly activated both pneumatic and manual brakes upon the cable failure, but these were insufficient to halt the vehicle’s descent. The carriage was traveling at an estimated speed of 60 km/h at the time of impact, and the entire event unfolded in just 50 seconds. This rapid sequence left little time for evacuation or intervention.
The cable involved was relatively new, having been in service for only 337 days out of a planned 600-day lifespan. A visual inspection performed on the morning of the accident did not detect any issues, as the break point was concealed and required dismantling for proper examination. This has raised questions about the adequacy of routine maintenance checks.
Victims of the tragedy include a diverse group of nationalities, with 11 foreigners among the 16 deceased. Identified victims include three British nationals, two South Koreans, two Canadians, one American, one Ukrainian, one Swiss, and one French citizen, along with five Portuguese. Families have expressed profound grief, with tributes highlighting the victims’ characters and contributions to their communities.
The Glória funicular, operational since 1885, is a cherished part of Lisbon’s heritage and daily life, frequently used by locals and admired by tourists. Its sudden malfunction has raised concerns about the maintenance of aging transport systems in urban environments, especially those with historical significance.
Currently, two independent investigations are being conducted: one by the Office for the Prevention and Investigation of Aircraft Accidents and Railway Accidents (GPIAAF) and another by the public prosecutor’s office. A full preliminary report is anticipated within 45 days, which may provide more insights into preventive measures and potential liability.
Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro has termed the crash “one of the biggest tragedies of our recent past,” emphasizing the need for thorough scrutiny to prevent future occurrences. The community and nation are mourning the loss, while authorities work to ensure such incidents are not repeated through enhanced safety protocols.