Tragedy on Tracks: Uncertified Cable Causes Lisbon Funicular Disaster

A preliminary report reveals that the cable causing a Lisbon funicular crash was uncertified for passenger use and highlighted maintenance flaws. The crash, which resulted in 16 fatalities, is under investigation, with a final report due next year. The incident has temporarily halted the funicular service.

A devastating accident occurred in Lisbon when a funicular railcar crashed after a cable, uncertified for passenger use, snapped. The tragedy, which claimed 16 lives, is under scrutiny as a preliminary report uncovers maintenance issues and outdated procedures.

The incident involved the historic Gloria funicular, which has been operational since 1885, serving millions annually. The railway's operator, Carris, suspended the service, pending the investigation's outcome. The Office for Air and Rail Accident Investigations (GPIAAF) highlighted shortcomings in maintenance, marking a need for systemic improvements.

The GPIAAF report indicates this crash was potentially due to several procedural failures, including acceptance and use of inadequate cables and insufficient internal controls by Carris, which has outsourced maintenance tasks since 2007. The findings call attention to potential discrepancies between recorded and actual maintenance work.

(With inputs from agencies.)