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This deadly inclined railway crash in Lisbon that claimed 16 people in the start of the ninth month was caused by a defective cable, as stated by the official probe published on Monday.

The investigation has advised that the city's similar transports remain out of service until their safety can be completely verified.

Particulars of the Tragic Event

The accident happened when the historic Glória funicular derailed and crashed into a building, stunning the metropolis and sparking grave fears about the safety of historic visitor sites.

The nation's accident investigation agency (GPIAAF) reported that a line connecting two compartments had disconnected just before the tragedy on 3 September.

Initial Findings

The early document confirmed that the cable did not meet the required specifications established by the city's transport operator.

This cable was not in compliance with the standards currently applicable to be employed for the Glória tram.

This 35-page report also advised that other funiculars in the capital must remain out of service until authorities can ensure they have sufficient braking systems able of stopping the vehicles in the scenario of a wire failure.

Fatalities and Harm

Of the 16 casualties, eleven were international visitors, comprising three UK citizens, 2 citizens of South Korea, 2 Canadians, a citizen of France, one Swiss, one citizen of the United States, and one Ukrainian national.

This crash also injured about twenty individuals, including three Britons.

Among the Portuguese fatalities included four employees from the same care facility, whose premises are situated at the summit of the sharp side road serviced by the cable car.

Historical Context

This Glória funicular first opened in the late 19th century, using a mechanism of counterweights to drive its 2 cars along its 265-metre track climbing and descending a steep slope.

Based on authorities, a routine inspection on the morning of the crash identified no anomalies with the line that eventually broke.

The investigators also reported that the conductor had activated the vehicle's stopping mechanism, but they were powerless to stop the vehicle without the support of the balancing mechanism.

This complete crash transpired in merely under a minute, according to the inquiry.

Future Steps

The investigative body is anticipated to publish a final document with security recommendations within the following twelve months, though an intermediary report may deliver additional details on the status of the inquiry.