What Happened in Lisbon's Gloria Funicular Derailment?
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Synopsis
The recent derailment of Lisbon's iconic Gloria Funicular has left the city in mourning, with 15 lives tragically lost. This incident has prompted national solidarity and an investigation into the causes of this horrific accident. Read on for the latest updates and responses from leaders around the world.
Key Takeaways
- 15 fatalities reported from the derailment.
- 18 injured, with five in critical condition.
- Investigation into the cause of the accident is underway.
- National day of mourning declared by the government.
- The Gloria Funicular is a significant tourist attraction in Lisbon.
Lisbon, Sep 4 (NationPress) The Gloria Funicular, a prominent tourist destination in Lisbon, experienced a tragic derailment, resulting in the loss of 15 lives and injuring 18 others, with five individuals reported in critical condition, according to local media outlets referencing the National Institute of Medical Emergency.
In response to this calamity, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has decided to cancel a scheduled book festival at the Belem Palace, which was to occur from Thursday through Sunday, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
The cancellation was made “in remembrance of the lives lost in the serious incident involving the Gloria Funicular in Lisbon, and to show solidarity with the grieving families,” as stated on the official website of the Presidency on Wednesday evening.
All party leaders expressed their condolences on Wednesday, and the government has declared Thursday a national day of mourning.
Lisbon's Mayor Carlos Moedas stated the city is “doing everything possible,” describing it as “a challenging day.”
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Union Commission, also shared her condolences in a post in Portuguese on X, expressing, “I am saddened to hear of the derailment of the renowned Elevador da Gloria.”
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed his shock at the accident on Wednesday evening, stating he was “appalled by the dreadful incident involving the Gloria Funicular in Lisbon.”
In a post on X, Sánchez extended “our heartfelt sympathy and solidarity” to the victims' families and the Portuguese populace during this difficult period, along with wishes for a swift recovery to those injured.
Antonio Tajani, the Italian Foreign Minister, remarked on his meeting with Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel, offering his “support to the victims.”
The U.S. Embassy in Lisbon paid tribute to the victims in a post on X, stating, “We are heartbroken by the tragic derailment at Lisbon's Glória Funicular. We mourn the lives lost and stand in solidarity with the people of Portugal. Our deepest condolences to all affected.”
The Portuguese government has announced that an investigation into the cause of the derailment will commence once the rescue operations are completed.
This incident took place near Avenida da Liberdade in central Lisbon, with the funicular carriage suffering severe damage.
Xinhua reporters observed police cordoning off a large area while numerous police officers and firefighters engaged in rescue efforts.
A Spanish tourist, Felipe, recounted to Xinhua that he “never anticipated such a serious accident occurring at such a famous landmark in the heart of Lisbon.”
Other witnesses also expressed their disbelief.
According to local news, this is not the first time the funicular has derailed. A similar incident transpired in 2018, although there were no injuries at that time.
Established in the late 19th century, the Gloria Funicular connects Restauradores Square with the Principe Real district, known for its vibrant yellow carriages navigating steep slopes, attracting numerous tourists annually.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach the recent derailment of the Gloria Funicular with a focus on the facts, the grieving families, and the swift actions taken by local authorities. We stand by our commitment to providing accurate reporting and supporting the community as they navigate this tragic event.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the derailment of the Gloria Funicular?
The investigation into the cause of the Gloria Funicular derailment will begin once rescue operations are concluded.
How many people were injured in the accident?
A total of 18 individuals were injured, with five reported in serious condition.
What actions were taken by the Portuguese government?
The government declared a national day of mourning and expressed condolences to the victims' families.
Is this the first incident involving the Gloria Funicular?
No, there was a similar derailment in 2018, but there were no injuries reported at that time.
What is the Gloria Funicular known for?
The Gloria Funicular is a historic transport system connecting Restauradores Square to Principe Real, famous for its bright yellow carriages navigating steep hills.
