What Caused the Death Toll to Rise to 17 in the Gloria Funicular Derailment in Portugal?
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Synopsis
The tragic derailment of the Gloria funicular in Lisbon has resulted in a rising death toll, now reaching 17. This devastating incident has shocked the nation, prompting an investigation and a day of national mourning. Discover the details surrounding this unfortunate event and its impact on the community.
Key Takeaways
- Death toll from the Gloria funicular accident has risen to 17.
- Investigation into the derailment is underway.
- Blood reserves are being monitored and reinforced for the injured.
- National mourning is observed in Portugal.
- Community impact is profound as families grieve.
Lisbon, Sep 4 (NationPress) Tragically, the death toll from the derailment of the Gloria funicular in Lisbon, Portugal, has now reached 17, following the passing of two individuals who were previously injured, as reported by the Director of the Lisbon Municipal Civil Protection Service, Margarida Castro Martins.
On Wednesday, 15 people lost their lives in the incident, while 23 others suffered injuries and were promptly transported to hospitals for medical attention; two of these individuals succumbed overnight. Among the injured, there are 12 women and 7 men, including four Portuguese nationals, two Spanish, one Korean, one Cape Verdean, one Canadian, one Italian, one French, one Swiss, and one Moroccan. The identities of four additional injured parties remain undisclosed, according to 'The Portugal News.'
The Gloria funicular derailed on Wednesday afternoon (local time). Managed by Carris, this funicular connects Restauradores to Jardim de Sao Pedro de Alcantara in the Bairro Alto district, covering approximately 265 meters, and is a favored attraction among tourists.
The local Public Prosecutor's Office has initiated an investigation into the details surrounding this tragic accident, as reported by RTP Radio and Television. Due to a shortage of personnel, the Aircraft and Railway Accident Prevention and Investigation Office only dispatched experts to the site on Thursday to investigate the cause of the derailment.
The Portuguese Institute of Blood and Transplantation (IPST) has activated its contingency plan and bolstered the blood reserves at hospitals treating the injured. The IPST has been vigilantly monitoring the blood supply at these facilities to ensure they can meet all emerging needs, as reported by RTP Radio and Television, referencing the Lusa news agency.
As of now, the blood component supplies are sufficient to handle the demands. Meanwhile, the National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences has mobilized its mass disaster response team to perform autopsies on the deceased as quickly as possible.
Portugal is observing a day of national mourning today in response to the Gloria funicular derailment in Lisbon. The local government has declared three days of municipal mourning as well. Flags of Portugal and the European Union are being flown at half-mast at the European Parliament in both Brussels and Strasbourg. Both the President and Prime Minister of Portugal have canceled their agendas today to honor the victims of this tragic event.
Point of View
I am deeply saddened by the unfolding tragedy in Lisbon. This unfortunate incident not only highlights the potential risks associated with public transportation but also brings to light the profound impact on families and the community at large. Our thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones during this challenging time.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Gloria funicular derailment?
The exact cause of the derailment is still under investigation by the local authorities. Experts have been dispatched to the site to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
How many people were injured in the accident?
A total of 23 people were injured in the Gloria funicular derailment, with varying degrees of severity. Medical assistance was provided to all injured parties.
What measures are being taken for the injured?
The Portuguese Institute of Blood and Transplantation has activated a contingency plan to ensure sufficient blood supplies are available for the injured individuals receiving treatment.
Is there a national response to this tragedy?
Yes, Portugal is observing a day of national mourning, and the local government has declared three days of municipal mourning in memory of the victims.
What is the Gloria funicular?
The Gloria funicular is a popular mode of transport in Lisbon, connecting Restauradores to Jardim de Sao Pedro de Alcantara and is well-known among both locals and tourists.
