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This deadly funicular incident in Lisbon that took sixteen victims in the start of the ninth month was caused by a faulty wire, according to the official inquiry issued on Monday.

This probe has advised that the city's equivalent cable cars remain halted until their operational integrity can be thoroughly assured.

Details of the Tragic Accident

This crash happened when the historic Glória funicular left the rails and smashed into a building, stunning the capital and sparking grave fears about the safety of older tourist attractions.

Portugal's transport safety authority (the investigative body) stated that a cable connecting two compartments had detached moments before the tragedy on September 3rd.

Early Findings

This preliminary report confirmed that the line was not up to the required standards established by the local transport operator.

This cable was not in compliance with the standards in force to be utilized for the Glória tram.

The detailed document also urged that other funiculars in Lisbon ought to remain out of service until authorities can verify they have sufficient brakes capable of halting the cabins in the event of a cable break.

Fatalities and Casualties

Among the 16 fatalities, 11 were international visitors, featuring three British citizens, two Korean nationals, two Canadian nationals, a citizen of France, one Swiss national, one US national, and a Ukrainian.

The crash also hurt around 20 persons, including 3 British citizens.

The national victims included 4 staff members from the same social care institution, whose offices are located at the top of the steep side road accessed by the cable car.

Operational Details

The Elevador da Glória began operation in the late 19th century, utilizing a system of balancing weights to propel its 2 wagons along its 870-foot track up and down a precipitous hill.

Based on authorities, a standard inspection on the day of the incident detected no anomalies with the cable that later broke.

The investigators also reported that the driver had engaged the funicular's brakes, but they were incapable to stop the vehicle without the function of the counterweight system.

The complete event occurred in only under a minute, per the investigation.

Upcoming Actions

The investigative body is anticipated to publish a final document with security guidelines within the following twelve months, though an intermediary document may offer additional updates on the development of the investigation.