What's Happening?
The official inquiry into the Lisbon funicular crash that killed 16 people has revealed that the cable used was not certified for public transport. The report by Portugal's Office for the Prevention and Investigation of Accidents in Civil Aviation and Rail
noted that the cable snapped at the point of attachment, causing the funicular to accelerate down a steep hill before crashing. The report recommended that all funiculars in Lisbon remain closed until their safety can be confirmed, with a focus on ensuring braking systems can immobilize cabins in the event of a cable break.
Why It's Important?
The findings of the inquiry have significant implications for public safety and transport regulation in Lisbon. The crash has exposed vulnerabilities in the city's transport infrastructure, particularly in the maintenance and certification of equipment used in public transport. The closure of funiculars affects both local commuters and the tourism industry, highlighting the need for improved safety standards and oversight.
What's Next?
The funiculars will remain closed until safety checks are completed and the final report is issued. The investigation will continue to assess the safety of the funiculars and implement necessary improvements. The report's recommendations may lead to changes in safety protocols and oversight for Lisbon's transport systems.
Beyond the Headlines
The crash has prompted a reevaluation of the safety and regulatory framework for Lisbon's historic transport systems. The exemption of funiculars from certain legal and supervisory oversight may be reconsidered, leading to potential changes in how these systems are managed and maintained.
