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This deadly cable car crash in Lisbon that cost sixteen lives in the start of the ninth month was caused by a faulty cable, as stated by the official inquiry published on Monday.

The probe has advised that Portugal's capital's similar vehicles stay out of service until their security can be completely assured.

Specifics of the Deadly Accident

This accident took place when the 19th-century Glória cable car went off track and smashed into a edifice, shocking the metropolis and raising serious concerns about the reliability of ageing landmarks.

Portugal's air and rail accident investigations bureau (GPIAAF) noted that a cable connecting two compartments had come loose shortly before the tragedy on September 3rd.

Preliminary Findings

The early analysis confirmed that the cable was not up to the specified standards outlined by the urban transport operator.

This line did not comply with the specifications currently applicable to be used for the Glória tram.

This 35-page analysis additionally recommended that other funiculars in the capital must stay suspended until experts can confirm they have adequate brakes designed of immobilising the cars in the case of a line snap.

Casualties and Harm

Of the 16 victims, 11 were non-Portuguese citizens, comprising three British citizens, 2 South Koreans, two Canadian nationals, a Frenchwoman, a citizen of Switzerland, one citizen of the United States, and one Ukrainian.

This accident also injured about twenty persons, including three Britons.

Among the local fatalities included four workers from the equivalent social care institution, whose workplace are positioned at the summit of the steep alley used by the funicular.

Historical Context

This Glória funicular began operation in the late 19th century, employing a system of weight compensation to move its two compartments along its long path climbing and descending a sharp slope.

As per investigators, a standard check on the morning of the crash detected no anomalies with the line that later broke.

This experts also reported that the driver had applied the cable car's braking system, but they were incapable to halt the vehicle without the function of the counterweight system.

The entire incident unfolded in just 50 seconds, as stated by the inquiry.

Upcoming Actions

This bureau is scheduled to publish a conclusive report with operational guidelines within the coming year, though an interim document may deliver further information on the status of the investigation.