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This deadly funicular accident in Lisbon that claimed 16 victims in the beginning of September was triggered by a damaged cable, according to the authoritative investigation issued on Monday.

The inquiry has advised that Lisbon's equivalent transports be kept out of service until their safety can be fully confirmed.

Specifics of the Devastating Event

The collision happened when the historic Glória funicular went off track and crashed into a edifice, shocking the metropolis and sparking serious fears about the security of ageing tourist attractions.

The nation's accident investigation agency (the bureau) noted that a wire linking two cabins had disconnected just before the tragedy on September 3rd.

Initial Results

This preliminary document indicated that the cable failed to meet the mandatory requirements established by the local public transport company.

The cable did not comply with the standards mandated to be employed for the Glória tram.

The comprehensive report further advised that other cable cars in the capital must be kept out of service until inspectors can ensure they have sufficient stopping mechanisms designed of immobilising the cabins in the event of a wire failure.

Victims and Injuries

Among the 16 victims, 11 were non-Portuguese citizens, comprising 3 UK nationals, two citizens of South Korea, two Canadian nationals, one citizen of France, a Swiss national, one American, and a Ukrainian national.

This incident also injured around 20 individuals, including three Britons.

The local casualties featured 4 staff members from the same care facility, whose offices are positioned at the top of the sharp alley accessed by the cable car.

Operational Information

The Glória funicular first opened in the late 19th century, employing a system of counterweights to drive its 2 wagons along its long path up and down a steep incline.

According to authorities, a standard check on the morning of the crash detected no anomalies with the line that later snapped.

The experts also noted that the operator had applied the cable car's braking system, but they were unable to halt the vehicle without the assistance of the weight compensation system.

This entire event unfolded in only less than a minute, per the investigation.

Next Actions

This investigative body is expected to release a definitive document with safety guidelines within the coming year, though an intermediary update may deliver further updates on the status of the investigation.