Lisbon Funicular Failure: Report Details Cable Snap Before Crash
- This week, the family and friends of Will Nelson are mourning his untimely death following a tragic accident in Lisbon, Portugal.Nelson, described as a beloved brother, friend, and...
- A statement released by the family reads: "He was always kind, selfless, and protective, and the world does not feel right or normal without him.
- The accident occurred on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, on the Glória funicular, a historic cable car railway in Lisbon's estrela district.
Will Nelson Remembered: Family and Friends Mourn Loss in Lisbon Accident
Table of Contents
Tragic Loss in Lisbon
This week, the family and friends of Will Nelson are mourning his untimely death following a tragic accident in Lisbon, Portugal.Nelson, described as a beloved brother, friend, and hero to many, died in an incident involving the Glória funicular.
A statement released by the family reads: “He was always kind, selfless, and protective, and the world does not feel right or normal without him. He was and has always been my hero, and we will miss you always.Love you, rest in peace you legend.”
The Lisbon Funicular Accident
The accident occurred on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, on the Glória funicular, a historic cable car railway in Lisbon’s estrela district. According to a report published on Saturday, August 17, 2024, by Portugal’s air and rail accident investigations bureau (GPIAAF), a cable linking two carriages snapped shortly before the crash as reported by The Guardian.
The GPIAAF investigation revealed that an operator attempted to apply emergency brakes, but the effort failed to prevent the derailment. At least 20 people were injured in the accident, with five remaining in critical condition as of August 17th according to Reuters.
Investigators found that a scheduled visual inspection had been conducted on the morning of the accident, but the specific area where the cable broke was not visible without dismantling the mechanism. The remainder of the funicular’s system was reportedly functioning correctly at the time of the inspection The Guardian. The carriages had traveled approximately six meters when the incident occurred.
About the Glória Funicular
The Glória funicular is one of Lisbon’s oldest and most iconic transportation systems. Opened in 1885, it connects the Praça dos Restauradores in the Baixa district with the Calçada do Loreto in the Estrela district. it is a popular tourist attraction and a vital part of Lisbon’s public transport network.
| Funicular | Year Opened | Route |
|---|---|---|
| Glória | 1885 | Praça dos Restauradores to Calçada do Loreto |
| Bica | 1890 | Rua de São Paulo to Calçada da Bica |
| Lavra | 1884 | Praça da Figueira to Rua da Conceição |
Lisbon has three funiculars still in operation: Glória, Bica, and Lavra.