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The tragic inclined railway accident in Portugal's capital that cost 16 lives in the beginning of September was caused by a faulty cable, as stated by the formal inquiry released on Monday.

The probe has recommended that Portugal's capital's comparable transports remain out of service until their operational integrity can be fully confirmed.

Details of the Tragic Accident

The collision occurred when the 19th-century Glória funicular left the rails and collided into a building, stunning the capital and raising grave concerns about the security of historic landmarks.

The nation's accident investigation agency (the bureau) noted that a cable joining two cabins had come loose moments before the incident on September 3rd.

Preliminary Results

The preliminary analysis stated that the cable did not meet the mandatory standards set by the urban public transport company.

The cable was not in compliance with the requirements currently applicable to be used for the Glória funicular.

This detailed report additionally urged that all cable cars in Lisbon ought to remain non-operational until authorities can confirm they have effective braking systems capable of stopping the vehicles in the event of a cable break.

Victims and Casualties

Of the 16 casualties, 11 were international visitors, including three British citizens, two Korean nationals, two Canadians, a Frenchwoman, one Swiss, an US national, and one citizen of Ukraine.

The accident also harmed around twenty persons, comprising 3 UK nationals.

Among the local casualties comprised four workers from the same welfare organization, whose workplace are positioned at the summit of the sharp side road used by the funicular.

Operational Information

The Glória was inaugurated in the late 19th century, using a method of counterweights to propel its two wagons along its 870-foot path climbing and descending a steep hill.

According to authorities, a standard inspection on the morning of the incident detected nothing unusual with the cable that eventually failed.

The investigators also stated that the operator had activated the funicular's braking system, but they were unable to halt the car without the support of the counterweight system.

This entire incident transpired in merely under a minute, according to the probe.

Upcoming Measures

The agency is anticipated to issue a final analysis with operational suggestions within the coming year, though an interim report may offer additional details on the progress of the inquiry.