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The tragic funicular incident in Lisbon that cost sixteen victims in the beginning of September was attributed to a damaged wire, according to the official probe released on the start of the week.

The probe has advised that the city's similar transports stay non-operational until their security can be thoroughly assured.

Details of the Deadly Event

The collision took place when the historic Glória funicular derailed and collided into a building, stunning the capital and sparking significant concerns about the reliability of historic tourist attractions.

The nation's accident investigation agency (the bureau) noted that a wire linking two cabins had come loose moments before the tragedy on the third of September.

Preliminary Results

This initial report indicated that the cable failed to meet the specified standards established by the city's transit authority.

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

The detailed analysis additionally advised that other cable cars in Lisbon must stay out of service until inspectors can confirm they have effective braking systems capable of immobilising the vehicles in the case of a cable break.

Fatalities and Harm

Among the 16 casualties, eleven were non-Portuguese citizens, including 3 British citizens, 2 Korean nationals, two Canadian nationals, a citizen of France, one citizen of Switzerland, an American, and a Ukrainian national.

The incident also injured about 20 individuals, among them 3 British citizens.

The national fatalities comprised four workers from the equivalent social care institution, whose premises are located at the peak of the steep alley serviced by the inclined railway.

Operational Details

This Elevador da Glória was inaugurated in the late 19th century, utilizing a system of balancing weights to propel its two compartments along its 870-foot route ascending and descending a sharp slope.

Based on the bureau, a standard inspection on the day of the accident identified no anomalies with the wire that eventually broke.

The investigators also noted that the driver had engaged the funicular's stopping mechanism, but they were powerless to halt the car without the assistance of the counterweight system.

The complete incident occurred in merely 50 seconds, as stated by the probe.

Upcoming Steps

This agency is expected to issue a final analysis with security recommendations within the coming year, though an interim document may deliver further information on the progress of the inquiry.