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This fatal inclined railway crash in Lisbon that took sixteen victims in the beginning of September was caused by a defective line, as stated by the authoritative probe released on Monday.

This investigation has urged that Portugal's capital's similar transports be kept non-operational until their safety can be thoroughly confirmed.

Details of the Devastating Accident

The accident occurred when the historic Elevador da Glória went off track and smashed into a structure, shocking the metropolis and raising serious worries about the reliability of ageing tourist attractions.

Portugal's transport safety authority (the investigative body) noted that a wire joining two compartments had detached moments before the incident on September 3rd.

Early Conclusions

This initial report confirmed that the cable did not meet the mandatory standards set by the local transport operator.

This cable was not in compliance with the requirements currently applicable to be utilized for the Glória cable car.

This comprehensive report additionally advised that all cable cars in the capital ought to stay non-operational until authorities can verify they have effective braking systems able of halting the cabins in the case of a cable break.

Fatalities and Injuries

Among the sixteen victims, 11 were non-Portuguese citizens, comprising 3 British citizens, 2 citizens of South Korea, 2 citizens of Canada, a French national, a Swiss, one American, and one Ukrainian.

This accident also injured about 20 people, including 3 UK nationals.

The Portuguese fatalities included 4 workers from the same care facility, whose offices are situated at the summit of the sheer side road serviced by the inclined railway.

Operational Information

This Glória funicular first opened in 1885, utilizing a method of balancing weights to move its two cars along its long route up and down a steep incline.

Based on authorities, a regular examination on the date of the crash found no issues with the line that subsequently failed.

The experts also noted that the operator had activated the cable car's stopping mechanism, but they were powerless to stop the car without the support of the counterweight system.

The complete event occurred in only under a minute, as stated by the probe.

Next Actions

This bureau is scheduled to issue a conclusive document with operational guidelines within the following twelve months, though an intermediary document may deliver further details on the progress of the inquiry.