Deadly Derailment Shocks Portugal
At least 15 people lost their lives, and 18 others were injured when Lisbon’s Gloria funicular derailed on Wednesday. Authorities confirmed that some of the victims included foreign nationals, though their identities and nationalities remain undisclosed.
Victims and Emergency Response
Emergency services reported that five victims were gravely injured. Rescue workers pulled passengers from the wreckage of the destroyed yellow tram-like funicular. Footage showed bystanders panicking as survivors leapt from windows during the tragic scene.
Mourning Declared in Lisbon
Lisbon’s mayor Carlos Moedas called the incident a “tragic day” for the city. Portugal’s government announced a day of national mourning on Thursday. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa expressed sorrow and urged investigators to determine the accident’s cause quickly.
Investigation and Maintenance Records
Police teams examined the site, while the prosecutor general’s office confirmed a formal investigation had been launched. Carris, Lisbon’s public transport operator, stated that “all maintenance protocols were followed,” citing daily inspections and monthly servicing records.
Historic Line and Tourism Impact
The Gloria funicular, inaugurated in 1885, connects Restauradores Square to the Bairro Alto, a district renowned for nightlife. It transports nearly 3 million passengers annually, serving both residents and tourists. Each car accommodates around 40 passengers, attached to a cable system powered by electric motors. One car derailed while the opposite remained intact, though jolted violently during the crash.
International Response
Portugal’s tourism industry, particularly Lisbon, has surged in the past decade, with millions visiting annually. Britain, the largest source of tourists to Portugal, confirmed contact with local authorities and offered consular support for affected nationals. Germany, Spain, and the United States follow as major tourism contributors. The US State Department has yet to comment.
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