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This deadly funicular crash in Lisbon that claimed 16 victims in the beginning of September was attributed to a defective cable, according to the formal investigation released on Monday.

This probe has advised that the city's similar vehicles remain non-operational until their safety can be fully verified.

Details of the Deadly Accident

The accident took place when the historic Glória cable car derailed and smashed into a building, shocking the metropolis and sparking serious worries about the security of historic visitor sites.

The nation's accident investigation agency (the investigative body) stated that a line joining two compartments had come loose moments before the incident on 3 September.

Preliminary Results

The early report indicated that the cable did not meet the required specifications outlined by the city's transport operator.

This wire was not in compliance with the requirements currently applicable to be employed for the Glória cable car.

The 35-page report additionally recommended that all inclined railways in the capital should remain suspended until inspectors can verify they have sufficient brakes designed of immobilising the vehicles in the event of a line snap.

Victims and Casualties

Among the 16 casualties, 11 were non-Portuguese citizens, featuring 3 British nationals, two Korean nationals, two citizens of Canada, one French national, one citizen of Switzerland, one American, and one Ukrainian national.

This incident also harmed approximately 20 people, including 3 Britons.

Among the Portuguese fatalities included four staff members from the same welfare organization, whose offices are situated at the peak of the sheer side road accessed by the cable car.

Historical Information

The Glória funicular began operation in the late 19th century, employing a system of balancing weights to propel its two wagons along its 265-metre route ascending and descending a sharp hill.

As per investigators, a regular inspection on the morning of the accident found no anomalies with the cable that later failed.

This probers also reported that the conductor had activated the funicular's brakes, but they were powerless to prevent the carriage without the support of the balancing mechanism.

This entire crash unfolded in only less than a minute, according to the inquiry.

Next Steps

This investigative body is scheduled to release a final document with security guidelines within the following twelve months, though an preliminary report may deliver further information on the status of the probe.