Three British citizens have tragically lost their lives in a devastating tram accident that occurred in Lisbon this week. The incident took place at the Gloria Funicular on Wednesday, September 3, around 6 pm, resulting in the deaths of at least 16 individuals and injuries to 21 others as the tram derailed.
The Gloria Funicular, a historic railway in Lisbon that has been in operation since 1885, has two trams running parallel to each other—one ascending the hill while the other descends on a bend in the road. This iconic funicular, which can accommodate up to 43 passengers and serves around three million people annually, experienced a tragic derailment on the fateful day.
Eyewitnesses described the harrowing scene as the tram crashed into a building with immense force, leaving it in pieces. Locals rushed to the wreckage in a cloud of dust, attempting to rescue survivors amidst the chaos. Witnesses reported hearing children’s screams and frantic calls for help following the collision.
Emergency response teams, comprising 62 personnel and 22 vehicles, swiftly arrived at the scene near Avenida da Liberdade to assist with the aftermath of the tragedy. The Gloria Funicular, a popular tourist attraction connecting Lisbon’s lower area to Bairro Alto, suffered a catastrophic event that has left a significant impact on the community.
Authorities have confirmed that among the casualties, three British nationals tragically perished, with nationals from various countries also among the deceased. The incident has sparked an investigation by the Portuguese public prosecutor’s office to determine the cause of the fatal crash, although early reports suggest a possible malfunction of the funicular before the tragic event.
As the community mourns the loss of life and grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, questions remain unanswered as to how such a catastrophic event unfolded at one of Lisbon’s renowned landmarks.