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The tragic cable car accident in Lisbon that cost sixteen people in early September was caused by a defective cable, as stated by the authoritative investigation released on the start of the week.

The probe has urged that Lisbon's equivalent transports remain out of service until their operational integrity can be fully assured.

Particulars of the Deadly Incident

This accident occurred when the historic Elevador da Glória went off track and smashed into a edifice, shocking the city and highlighting grave fears about the reliability of older tourist attractions.

Portugal's accident investigation agency (the investigative body) noted that a line connecting two compartments had detached shortly before the tragedy on September 3rd.

Early Conclusions

This preliminary report stated that the cable did not meet the specified specifications established by the urban public transport company.

This wire failed to comply with the requirements mandated to be used for the Glória funicular.

This comprehensive report further advised that other cable cars in Lisbon should stay suspended until inspectors can verify they have adequate braking systems designed of halting the cars in the event of a line snap.

Victims and Casualties

Among the sixteen casualties, 11 were international visitors, featuring 3 UK individuals, 2 South Koreans, 2 citizens of Canada, one French national, one citizen of Switzerland, one citizen of the United States, and one Ukrainian national.

This incident also harmed around twenty individuals, comprising three British citizens.

The Portuguese victims included four employees from the equivalent welfare organization, whose workplace are situated at the summit of the sharp side road accessed by the funicular.

Operational Context

The Elevador da Glória first opened in 1885, using a system of counterweights to move its two compartments along its 265-metre path ascending and descending a steep hill.

As per the bureau, a regular examination on the day of the incident identified no issues with the line that later broke.

This probers also noted that the driver had applied the funicular's brakes, but they were incapable to halt the vehicle without the function of the weight compensation system.

This whole incident transpired in merely under a minute, per the inquiry.

Next Steps

The agency is scheduled to release a conclusive report with operational recommendations within the next year, though an interim document may deliver additional updates on the progress of the probe.