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CatastrophePortugal

Lisbon funicular cash: Report reveals likely cause

Shannon Redstall
September 7, 2025

Lisbon's yellow tram-like funicular railway, which carries people up and down the Portuguese capital's steep hillside, crashed into a building after leaving the track. Portugal's Office for Air and Rail Accident Investigations released its first investigative report.

https://p.dw.com/p/5072S

A tragic crash involving Lisbon’s iconic funicular has left 16 dead and over 20 injured. Investigators say a snapped cable caused the top carriage to plummet downhill at 60 km/h, crashing into a building. Survivors describe a terrifying free fall and chaotic aftermath. The cable, now central to the probe, failed just six meters into the ride. Portugal’s transport safety bureau is leading the investigation.

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