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This fatal funicular crash in Lisbon that claimed 16 people in the beginning of September was triggered by a damaged cable, as stated by the official inquiry published on Monday.

The probe has urged that Portugal's capital's similar cable cars remain out of service until their operational integrity can be completely assured.

Specifics of the Devastating Event

The collision happened when the 19th-century Glória funicular derailed and smashed into a edifice, horrifying the capital and sparking significant worries about the safety of ageing landmarks.

The country's air and rail accident investigations bureau (the bureau) reported that a cable joining two cars had come loose shortly before the incident on September 3rd.

Initial Conclusions

This initial analysis confirmed that the cable did not meet the required specifications outlined by the city's transport operator.

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

This detailed analysis further advised that the remaining funiculars in the capital ought to remain out of service until inspectors can confirm they have adequate braking systems capable of halting the vehicles in the scenario of a cable break.

Victims and Injuries

Of the 16 victims, eleven were non-Portuguese citizens, including three British nationals, 2 South Koreans, 2 Canadian nationals, one Frenchwoman, a Swiss, an citizen of the United States, and a citizen of Ukraine.

This accident also harmed approximately twenty persons, comprising three Britons.

The national fatalities comprised four workers from the identical welfare organization, whose premises are situated at the peak of the steep side road accessed by the cable car.

Background Information

The Glória began operation in the late 19th century, utilizing a system of balancing weights to drive its 2 compartments along its 265-metre path up and down a steep slope.

Based on investigators, a routine examination on the date of the crash detected no issues with the line that eventually broke.

The probers also reported that the driver had engaged the cable car's braking system, but they were powerless to prevent the vehicle without the assistance of the counterweight system.

This complete event unfolded in only 50 seconds, according to the probe.

Next Measures

The bureau is expected to publish a final report with safety recommendations within the following twelve months, though an intermediary update may provide further updates on the progress of the investigation.