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The deadly inclined railway crash in Lisbon that claimed 16 lives in the start of the ninth month was caused by a damaged cable, as stated by the official probe issued on Monday.

The inquiry has urged that the city's comparable vehicles be kept non-operational until their safety can be completely confirmed.

Details of the Devastating Accident

This crash took place when the historic Elevador da Glória derailed and collided into a edifice, horrifying the city and highlighting significant concerns about the reliability of historic tourist attractions.

Portugal's accident investigation agency (GPIAAF) stated that a wire linking two compartments had come loose moments before the tragedy on September 3rd.

Preliminary Conclusions

The initial analysis indicated that the line did not meet the specified standards established by the city's transit authority.

This cable failed to comply with the specifications currently applicable to be used for the Glória tram.

This comprehensive report additionally recommended that the remaining cable cars in the capital must remain suspended until authorities can verify they have adequate brakes designed of stopping the vehicles in the event of a cable break.

Fatalities and Casualties

Of the sixteen fatalities, eleven were non-Portuguese citizens, comprising 3 British individuals, 2 Korean nationals, two Canadians, a citizen of France, a Swiss national, one citizen of the United States, and a citizen of Ukraine.

The incident also injured about 20 individuals, including three Britons.

Among the national fatalities comprised four employees from the equivalent welfare organization, whose premises are positioned at the peak of the sheer street accessed by the cable car.

Operational Details

The Glória began operation in 1885, using a method of weight compensation to drive its two wagons along its 265-metre route climbing and descending a precipitous hill.

According to authorities, a regular check on the date of the accident found no anomalies with the cable that later snapped.

This investigators also reported that the operator had activated the funicular's braking system, but they were incapable to stop the vehicle without the support of the counterweight system.

This entire incident unfolded in only under a minute, according to the inquiry.

Next Actions

This agency is anticipated to issue a final document with safety recommendations within the next year, though an preliminary update may offer more details on the status of the investigation.