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The deadly inclined railway incident in Portugal's capital that cost 16 lives in early September was triggered by a defective cable, per the official probe released on the start of the week.

This inquiry has recommended that the city's similar vehicles be kept halted until their safety can be completely assured.

Specifics of the Tragic Incident

This crash happened when the old Glória funicular went off track and collided into a structure, shocking the metropolis and sparking significant fears about the reliability of ageing landmarks.

Portugal's transport safety authority (the bureau) noted that a cable linking two compartments had come loose just before the incident on the third of September.

Initial Results

The early analysis stated that the cable did not meet the mandatory standards established by the urban transport operator.

This wire did not comply with the specifications in force to be utilized for the Glória tram.

The detailed report further urged that other inclined railways in the city must stay out of service until experts can confirm they have effective stopping mechanisms capable of halting the vehicles in the scenario of a line snap.

Casualties and Harm

Among the sixteen victims, 11 were foreign nationals, comprising 3 British individuals, two Korean nationals, 2 Canadian nationals, a French national, one Swiss, an American, and a Ukrainian national.

The crash also injured around 20 persons, including 3 Britons.

The Portuguese victims included 4 workers from the equivalent social care institution, whose workplace are positioned at the peak of the sharp side road serviced by the inclined railway.

Background Information

The Glória funicular began operation in the late 19th century, using a system of counterweights to propel its 2 wagons along its 265-metre path climbing and descending a sharp hill.

As per investigators, a standard examination on the morning of the accident detected nothing unusual with the line that subsequently failed.

The investigators also reported that the operator had applied the cable car's stopping mechanism, but they were powerless to prevent the vehicle without the function of the counterweight system.

The complete crash unfolded in just 50 seconds, according to the inquiry.

Future Steps

The agency is expected to issue a definitive document with security recommendations within the next year, though an preliminary report may offer more information on the development of the inquiry.