A tragic incident occurred in Lisbon when a funicular tram derailed, resulting in the deaths of 17 individuals and injuries to at least 21 others. The accident took place last night as the Gloria Funicular, a well-known attraction in the Portuguese capital, crashed into a building, causing chaos and panic among onlookers.
The cause of the fatal collision is currently under investigation by the Portuguese public prosecutor’s office, with the identities of most victims yet to be disclosed. Among those affected are tourists, including a German family where a three-year-old boy was injured, his mother in serious condition, and his father tragically losing his life at the scene.
The funicular, in operation since 1885, is a historic mode of transportation that carries millions of passengers annually between Restauradores Square and the Bairro Alto neighborhood. The recent accident occurred near Restauradores Square when one of the trams lost control, leading to the devastating crash.
Local authorities have confirmed 17 fatalities and 21 injuries, with foreign nationals among the victims. The funicular’s brakeman, André Jorge Gonçalves Marques, a father of two, was among those who tragically lost their lives.
The exact cause of the incident is yet to be determined, but initial reports suggest a possible malfunction in the funicular system. Investigations are being conducted by the national transport safety authority and the company responsible for operating the funicular service.
Despite regular maintenance being carried out on the funicular, concerns have been raised by a union regarding the adequacy of maintenance practices. The funicular, known as Elevador da Gloria, operates with two cars moving in opposite directions powered by electric motors attached to a haulage cable.
This tragic event has brought sorrow and shock to the city of Lisbon, with authorities and investigators working diligently to understand the circumstances that led to the deadly accident.