In a devastating incident, at least three individuals lost their lives, and around 20 others sustained injuries when Lisbon’s renowned Gloria funicular railway derailed and crashed, as confirmed by emergency services.
The head of Portugal’s Civil Protection Authority reported that several victims remain trapped at the scene, with two individuals in critical condition. Eyewitness accounts and videos circulating on social media depict the yellow funicular overturned and nearly obliterated, with panicked passengers fleeing the area amidst rising smoke.
“The sympathy and solidarity with the families affected by this tragedy,”
stated Portugal’s president in an official announcement. The unfortunate accident occurred around 6:05 PM on Wednesday near Avenida da Liberdade, with 43 individuals aboard the funicular at the time of the derailment.
As of now, it remains unclear whether the deceased were Portuguese citizens or tourists. Reports from the Portuguese newspaper Observador suggest that a cable malfunctioned along the railway, leading to a loss of control and a collision with a nearby building.
Emergency Response and Investigation
In response to the crash, a substantial emergency operation has been initiated, comprising 62 personnel and 22 emergency vehicles on-site, as indicated by the civil protection website. The Gloria Funicular, a historic symbol of Lisbon, has been operational since 1885 and was electrified three decades later, serving as a vital transportation link in the hilly city.
This particular funicular, which covers a distance of approximately 275 meters (900 feet) from Restauradores square to the charming cobbled streets of Bairro Alto, typically completes its journey in a mere three minutes. Both locals and tourists frequently utilize the funicular, especially during the bustling summer season.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities in Lisbon have indicated that it is premature to ascertain the precise cause of the incident or the total number of individuals affected. Investigations will continue to unravel the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.