Catastrophe in Lisbon: Connector Severed on Fatal Subway Line
In the heart of Lisbon, a tragic incident occurred on a Wednesday evening, claiming the lives of 16 individuals and leaving 21 others injured, some seriously. The accident involved the city's famous tourist attraction, the Elevador da Glória cable car.
The cable car, a vital part of Lisbon's public transport system, consists of six strands, each with 36 steel wires and a fiber core. The cable that was in use at the time of the accident had been operational for approximately six years, according to reports. However, it was scheduled to be replaced in less than nine months, and its expected lifespan is 600 days.
The accident occurred due to a failure in the connection of the cable to the vehicle. After 170 meters, the train derailed at a curve and tipped over, eventually crashing into a building. The cable failure occurred at the attachment point on the upper part of the accident vehicle.
The vehicle involved in the accident collided with iron masts, a street lamp post, an iron pole, and finally crashed into the building. The brakeman, the only employee on board, is believed to be among the victims. It is suspected that the pressure air brake system either failed or was insufficient, preventing the brakeman from stopping the vehicle.
The cable's maintenance and upkeep are the responsibility of Carris, Lisbon's public transport company. Following safety concerns after the accident, Carris has affirmed that they conduct monthly, weekly maintenance programs and daily checks. The maintenance includes a thorough inspection and servicing of the cable.
Such an accident involving one of the city's three funiculars had not occurred before. The accident involved five Portuguese nationals, three Britons, two Canadians, two South Koreans, one each from Switzerland, Ukraine, France, and the United States, according to Portugal's criminal police. Among the victims, 11 were foreigners, including the brakeman.
The Elevador da Glória, annually transporting around three million passengers, is one of Lisbon's most famous tourist attractions. The city and its people mourn this unfortunate incident and extend their deepest condolences to the families of the victims. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the accident and ensure such incidents do not recur in the future.
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