LISBON FUNICULAR CRASH: CABLE SNAPPED BEFORE DEADLY CRASH, INVESTIGATORS SAY
Lisbon, Portugal - The investigation into Wednesday's devastating funicular crash in Lisbon has revealed that a critical cable along the railway's route snapped before the disaster, causing the upper carriage to plummet down the steep slope and derail. According to officials from the national transport safety office, the cable connecting the two carriages had given way, rendering the emergency brakes ineffective.
"The examination of the wreckage at the site immediately determined that the cable had failed," a statement by the national transport safety office said. "The brakeman's attempt to apply emergency brakes was unsuccessful in preventing the derailment."
Sixteen people lost their lives and about 20 were injured when the iconic yellow Glória funicular railway crashed into a building on one of Lisbon's steep slopes. The victims included five Portuguese nationals, three Britons, two South Koreans, two Canadians, an American, a Ukrainian, a Swiss, and a French national.
The 140-year-old funicular is a vital transportation link for the city's residents and a popular tourist attraction. Designed to navigate Lisbon's hilly terrain, it has been in operation since 1884. The crash has raised concerns about the safety of this aging infrastructure and its ability to withstand modern demands.
"This incident highlights the need for regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure the continued safe operation of our transportation systems," said a spokesperson for the national transport authority. "We will be conducting a thorough review of all funiculars in Portugal to identify any potential vulnerabilities."
The investigation is ongoing, with officials from the Portuguese authorities working closely with international experts to determine the cause of the cable failure and whether it was related to human error or mechanical malfunction.
As the city mourns the loss of life and grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, residents and visitors alike are left wondering about the long-term implications for Lisbon's transportation network. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of investing in modernization and maintenance to ensure public safety.
The investigation is expected to take several weeks to complete, but officials have already begun reviewing existing safety protocols and procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In related news, the Portuguese government has announced plans to increase funding for transportation infrastructure upgrades and maintenance. The move aims to address concerns about the aging condition of many of Lisbon's transportation systems and ensure public safety.
The Glória funicular is expected to remain closed until further notice while repairs are carried out.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
