At least 15 fatalities in Lisbon funicular accident

A tragic accident occurred in Lisbon when the historic Elevador da Glória funicular derailed, resulting in at least 15 fatalities and 18 injuries. The incident took place around 6 p.m. during the evening rush hour in the city’s historic district. Preliminary investigations indicate that a loose cable caused the funicular to lose control, leading it to crash into a building after descending rapidly. The vehicle was severely damaged, lying on its side, and images from the scene showcased the devastation.

Among the injured, five individuals, including a three-year-old child and a South Korean woman, are in critical condition. Authorities confirmed the presence of foreign nationals among the deceased but have not disclosed their identities. The Elevador da Glória, inaugurated in 1885, is both a cherished tourist attraction and an essential transport link connecting Restauradores Square with the Bairro Alto neighborhood, accommodating about three million passengers annually.

In the wake of the tragedy, the Portuguese government declared a national day of mourning on September 4, while President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa labeled the incident a “tragedy” and urged swift investigations into its cause. Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas emphasized the incident’s severity, calling it a “tragic day.”

Emergency services, including over 60 firefighters, responded swiftly, extracting all victims within two hours. The Portuguese Office for the Prevention and Investigation of Accidents has launched an investigation to examine maintenance protocols, especially following a previous derailment in 2018.

This incident has cast a shadow over Lisbon’s reputation, historically celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and attracting millions of tourists each year. Authorities aim to ensure safety in public transportation to prevent future occurrences.