A preliminary investigation into the tragic funicular crash in Lisbon has revealed significant safety failures. The cable involved in the incident, which took place in September 2023, was not certified for passenger transport and did not meet the specifications set by the operator, CARRIS. This incident resulted in the deaths of at least 16 people and left several others injured, according to findings reported by CNN Portugal.
The accident occurred when a steel cable connecting the Glória funicular’s two cars snapped shortly after they began their journey along the steep Calçada da Glória, the narrow street where the funicular operates. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as one of the cars derailed, careening down the street before colliding with a nearby building.
An eyewitness named Bruno recalled the moment, stating, “The funicular car was completely out of control. It looked like a toy being thrown from one side of the Glória pavement to the other. I heard screams and then, suddenly, a loud bang.” He further noted that after the crash, “you couldn’t hear people anymore and a cloud of brown smoke appeared.”
The interim report from the Office for the Prevention and Investigation of Accidents in Civil Aviation and Rail (GPIAAF) highlighted “serious failures in the cable, maintenance, and brakes.” GPIAAF’s findings indicated that the cable did not meet the specifications set forth by the operator, CARRIS. Moreover, maintenance records showed that tasks were marked as completed even when they had not been performed, raising concerns about the integrity of the maintenance plan, which was recorded as “compliant and accepted.”
While the GPIAAF has stressed that these interim findings are preliminary and not conclusive, they are critical in understanding the failures that contributed to this devastating incident. A final report detailing the full investigation is expected to be released in 2024.
This tragic event has prompted calls for enhanced safety protocols and rigorous inspections of funicular systems, particularly given the potential risks associated with passenger transport in such environments. As authorities continue their investigation, many will be looking for answers and accountability in the wake of this disaster.
