A popular tourist funicular in Lisbon has been struck by tragedy after a catastrophic derailment left two people dead and dozens more injured in a major emergency incident.
The horrifying accident occurred on the Portuguese capital's iconic Gloria Funicular, a beloved transport link that scales the city's steep hills, when the carriage suddenly left the tracks and plunged downwards.
Emergency services scrambled to the scene near São Jorge Castle following the incident, which happened shortly before 6pm local time on Thursday evening. A massive rescue operation involving multiple fire crews, paramedics, and police units was immediately launched.
Mass Casualty Response
Portuguese emergency officials confirmed the devastating toll: at least two fatalities and more than 30 people injured in the catastrophic derailment. The scale of the incident prompted authorities to declare a major accident protocol, normally reserved for disasters with numerous casualties.
Distressing images from the scene showed the damaged funicular carriage tilted at a severe angle as rescue workers used specialised equipment to access victims trapped inside the wreckage.
Tourist Attraction Turned Tragedy
The Gloria Funicular, known locally as Elevador da Glória, is one of Lisbon's most famous tourist attractions, carrying thousands of visitors daily between the Baixa district and the Bairro Alto neighbourhood. The historic cable car has been operational since 1885 and is considered an integral part of the city's transport network.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos and panic as the funicular suddenly derailed. "We heard a terrible noise and then screaming," one local shopkeeper told reporters. "People were running to help, but there was little we could do."
Investigation Underway
Portuguese authorities have launched an immediate investigation into the cause of the derailment. Technical experts from the transport ministry are examining the tracks, braking systems, and carriage mechanics to determine what led to this tragic failure.
Lisbon's mayor, Carlos Moedas, expressed his "deep sorrow" at the incident and promised a full inquiry. "This is a dark day for our city," he stated. "We will determine exactly what happened and ensure such a tragedy never occurs again."
The funicular line has been closed indefinitely as the investigation continues, with alternative transport arrangements being made for affected residents and tourists.
