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The deadly funicular accident in Lisbon that took 16 victims in early September was caused by a damaged cable, as stated by the formal inquiry released on the start of the week.

The inquiry has urged that the city's similar vehicles stay out of service until their security can be completely verified.

Specifics of the Tragic Accident

This crash happened when the historic Elevador da Glória went off track and collided into a structure, horrifying the metropolis and sparking grave concerns about the safety of older tourist attractions.

The country's transport safety authority (the bureau) reported that a cable linking two compartments had disconnected just before the crash on 3 September.

Initial Findings

The initial analysis confirmed that the cable did not meet the mandatory requirements set by the urban transit authority.

This wire did not comply with the specifications in force to be employed for the Glória funicular.

This detailed analysis further advised that other inclined railways in the city must stay non-operational until inspectors can confirm they have adequate brakes designed of halting the cars in the scenario of a line snap.

Victims and Harm

Of the sixteen casualties, 11 were international visitors, including 3 British citizens, 2 citizens of South Korea, 2 Canadians, one French national, one Swiss, one US national, and one Ukrainian.

This crash also harmed approximately 20 individuals, comprising three British citizens.

The national fatalities featured four workers from the identical care facility, whose workplace are positioned at the top of the sharp street used by the inclined railway.

Background Details

The Glória funicular was inaugurated in the late 19th century, using a method of weight compensation to propel its two wagons along its 870-foot track up and down a steep hill.

Based on authorities, a regular examination on the morning of the accident identified nothing unusual with the cable that subsequently broke.

The investigators also reported that the driver had activated the cable car's stopping mechanism, but they were powerless to halt the carriage without the function of the balancing mechanism.

The entire event transpired in just less than a minute, per the probe.

Upcoming Measures

This investigative body is expected to release a definitive document with safety recommendations within the coming year, though an interim report may deliver more details on the status of the probe.