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This deadly cable car accident in Lisbon that took 16 lives in early September was attributed to a damaged line, per the authoritative investigation issued on the start of the week.

The investigation has recommended that the city's comparable cable cars remain out of service until their security can be completely confirmed.

Particulars of the Tragic Event

The crash happened when the 19th-century Glória cable car left the rails and smashed into a structure, horrifying the capital and highlighting serious fears about the security of ageing tourist attractions.

The country's air and rail accident investigations bureau (GPIAAF) noted that a cable linking two compartments had disconnected shortly before the tragedy on 3 September.

Initial Conclusions

The early report confirmed that the wire failed to meet the required specifications set by the local transport operator.

This wire did not comply with the requirements mandated to be utilized for the Glória cable car.

This detailed report also advised that other cable cars in the capital should remain out of service until authorities can ensure they have effective braking systems designed of stopping the cars in the scenario of a wire failure.

Fatalities and Injuries

Among the 16 casualties, eleven were foreign nationals, comprising 3 UK nationals, 2 Korean nationals, 2 Canadians, one Frenchwoman, a Swiss national, an US national, and a Ukrainian.

The incident also hurt approximately 20 persons, comprising 3 UK nationals.

The national victims comprised four employees from the identical social care institution, whose workplace are situated at the top of the steep alley used by the inclined railway.

Background Details

The Elevador da Glória first opened in the late 19th century, employing a system of counterweights to propel its two wagons along its 265-metre route up and down a sharp slope.

Based on authorities, a routine examination on the morning of the accident found nothing unusual with the line that subsequently broke.

The experts also reported that the driver had applied the funicular's braking system, but they were powerless to prevent the vehicle without the assistance of the weight compensation system.

This entire event occurred in merely less than a minute, as stated by the investigation.

Next Measures

This bureau is scheduled to publish a final report with safety recommendations within the following twelve months, though an interim update may offer more updates on the development of the inquiry.