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This tragic cable car crash in Portugal's capital that claimed 16 people in early September was attributed to a damaged wire, per the authoritative investigation published on Monday.

The investigation has urged that Portugal's capital's comparable transports remain out of service until their safety can be completely assured.

Specifics of the Tragic Event

This crash happened when the 19th-century Elevador da Glória derailed and crashed into a building, horrifying the metropolis and highlighting serious concerns about the security of historic landmarks.

The nation's transport safety authority (the investigative body) stated that a cable joining two cars had disconnected just before the tragedy on September 3rd.

Initial Findings

This initial report stated that the line did not meet the mandatory standards outlined by the city's transport operator.

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

The comprehensive analysis also advised that other funiculars in Lisbon ought to be kept non-operational until experts can confirm they have adequate stopping mechanisms able of stopping the vehicles in the case of a line snap.

Victims and Harm

Of the 16 fatalities, 11 were non-Portuguese citizens, featuring three UK citizens, two Korean nationals, 2 Canadian nationals, one French national, one citizen of Switzerland, one US national, and a Ukrainian national.

The crash also harmed approximately 20 people, comprising 3 British citizens.

The Portuguese victims comprised 4 workers from the identical social care institution, whose offices are positioned at the summit of the sharp alley used by the cable car.

Historical Context

The Glória first opened in the late 19th century, using a method of counterweights to move its two wagons along its 265-metre route climbing and descending a sharp slope.

According to the bureau, a standard examination on the day of the crash found nothing unusual with the cable that subsequently snapped.

The investigators also noted that the conductor had applied the vehicle's stopping mechanism, but they were incapable to stop the vehicle without the function of the weight compensation system.

This complete incident transpired in only 50 seconds, as stated by the investigation.

Future Steps

The investigative body is expected to issue a final report with safety recommendations within the following twelve months, though an preliminary report may provide more information on the progress of the inquiry.